Attacks on security officials a declaration of war – FG

The Federal Government has depicted attacks on security personnel as a declaration of war against the nation.

The Minister of Information and Culture, Lai Mohammed, on Tuesday, declared this during a press briefing on national security in Lagos State.

In a copy of the press briefing text made available to our reporter, Mohammed’s representative criticised the attacks on security operatives.

He said, “Now, there is a growing dangerous trend which I will like to comment on. It is the practice of launching deadly attacks against the nation’s security personnel. Soldiers as well as police, customs, and other security agents have been killed and maimed in some parts of the country in this growing trend of targeting security forces.

“I want to say, unequivocally, that any attack on our security men and women is an attack on the state and a declaration of war against the nation. It follows, therefore, that this will be countered with overwhelming force.

“When those whose responsibility it is to protect us are themselves being subjected to mindless attacks, it can only be for one reason only: To instill fear and evoke a sense of pervasive insecurity among the people.

“Whether known or unknown gunmen, those engaged in this dastardly act will pay dearly for their actions.”

Mohammed urged Nigerians to assist security agencies, who are tasked with the additional responsibility of having to protect themselves against danger while working to safeguard others.

He stated, “While the government continues with these efforts to restore peace and security continues, I want to appeal to all of us to play our part in lowering the palpable tension in the polity as a result of the security challenges. The first step is to tone down the rhetoric.”