Bandit Leader Dares Security Operatives: “Kill 10 of Us, 20 Will Emerge”

By Diafa Doubra,

A notorious bandit kingpin has openly mocked Nigeria’s ongoing military offensive, declaring that the fight against banditry will only fuel the growth of more fighters.

The kingpin, whose identity has not been disclosed for security reasons, was quoted as saying: “Kill 10 of us, 20 will emerge,” in what many see as a defiant message to the country’s armed forces.

The taunt comes amid renewed operations by the military and security agencies across the North-West and North-Central regions, where banditry has claimed thousands of lives and displaced entire communities.

Security analysts warn that the statement highlights the resilience and recruitment drive of armed groups, which continue to exploit poverty, weak governance, and porous borders to expand their ranks.

Meanwhile, the Defence Headquarters insists that its current offensive is yielding results, with several camps destroyed and dozens of fighters neutralized in recent weeks. Authorities have urged Nigerians not to be discouraged by the threats, stressing that the government remains committed to ending the menace.

The bandit leader’s outburst, however, underscores the scale of the challenge, as security forces battle to reclaim territories and restore peace in troubled communities.