Defence Minister Warns Against Terror Apologists, Declares “Support Equals Complicity”

N Nigeria’s Defence Minister, Christopher Gwabin Musa, has delivered a stern warning to individuals and groups perceived to be sympathising with terrorists, insisting that any form of support for criminal elements will attract serious consequences.

Amid growing concerns over insecurity across the country, Musa stressed that those who defend, justify, or maintain dealings with bandits and ????????? groups are indirectly sustaining violence and instability. He cautioned against framing terrorism along ethnic or religious lines, noting that such narratives only serve to embolden perpetrators.

> “The friend of a thief is a thief,” Musa declared. “Nobody should support terrorists in whatever forms. Those engaging with them for financial gain must understand they are dealing in blood money and will be held accountable.”



The Defence Minister also took aim at certain influential figures, including traditional and religious leaders, warning that careless or sympathetic remarks could encourage further violence.

> “Some comments tend to embolden these criminals. Anyone whose words contribute to the loss of lives shares in the responsibility,” he added.



Musa emphasized that Nigeria’s fight against insecurity requires not only military action but also a united front against narratives that excuse or downplay criminality.

His remarks underscore the Federal Government’s intensified stance against both direct perpetrators of violence and those seen as enabling them, signaling a broader approach to tackling terrorism that includes ideological accountability.