12th June, 2026 | News

Tinubu Warns Terrorists, Bandits and Kidnappers: Surrender or Face Justice

President Bola Tinubu has delivered a strong warning to bandits, kidnappers and those sponsoring terrorism, declaring that the Nigerian government will intensify its efforts against insecurity and show no leniency to those responsible for violence across the country.

Speaking during his nationwide Democracy Day address on Friday, the President said individuals involved in terrorism, banditry and kidnapping must either surrender or face the full force of the law.

According to Tinubu, opportunities for criminals to renounce violence and lay down their arms will not remain available indefinitely.

“To bandits, kidnappers, and sponsors of terror: surrender or face the full force of the Nigerian State,” he said, stressing that the government would not tolerate those who profit from the suffering and deaths of innocent Nigerians.

Crime Has No Ethnicity

While reaffirming his administration’s commitment to tackling insecurity, the President cautioned Nigerians against ethnic profiling and divisive narratives that could worsen tensions within the country.

He emphasized that criminal activities should not be linked to any particular ethnic group, urging citizens to avoid blame games and remain focused on confronting a shared threat.

“At a time like this, let us not assign blame or point fingers. Crime has no ethnicity,” Tinubu stated.

The President called for national unity in the fight against terrorism and banditry, expressing confidence that those responsible for violence would ultimately be defeated.

“We must stand united and be assured that the enemies of our nation shall soon be history,” he said.

Confidence in Nigeria’s Future

Tinubu also expressed optimism about Nigeria’s ability to overcome its security challenges and continue its path toward development and prosperity.

“We will triumph over terror and continue to build a more prosperous nation,” he declared.

Reflecting on Nigeria’s democratic journey, the President described the current period as a defining moment for his generation, arguing that every era carries a unique national responsibility.

He noted that while Nigeria’s founding fathers secured independence and the June 12 generation fought for democracy, the responsibility of the present generation is to create prosperity and opportunity for all citizens.

Call for Unity and National Renewal

In his closing remarks, Tinubu urged Nigerians to reject division, cynicism and hopelessness, and instead embrace unity, hope and collective progress.

He called for the building of a nation where justice is accessible, freedom is protected, diversity is celebrated and economic opportunities are available to all.

“Let us move forward together—rejecting division, cynicism, and despair; embracing unity, hope, and confidence,” the President said.

He added that a stronger and more prosperous Nigeria can be achieved through shared purpose, national unity and a commitment to democratic values.