The World Institute for Peace has urged the Federal Government not to grant amnesty to terrorists and bandits.
The advice came on the heels of a reported call for amnesty by bandit kingpins in North-Western states on Sunday.
Speaking at the International Peace Conference of the institute on Sunday, WIP Country Director, Lamina Omotoyosi, said instead of amnesty, the government should deploy more resources to flush terrorists and bandits out of the country.
He said, “If we want this country to grow, the government shouldn’t say people will talk if we do this. Government should close their eyes and do what is right.
“The government must say that this is right and should be done.
“Recently, I heard that one of the former governors of Zamfara pleaded for the government to give amnesty to bandits. There were also reports on Sunday that the bandit kingpins in North-West states are clamouring for amnesty. On what basis? For what purpose?
“There should be no amnesty granted to bandits. On what basis would the government give amnesty to bandits? I plead with the Federal Government not to amnesty bandits.
“The Government should use the military. The military is capable of facing any security threat. The criminals want amnesty because of the military onslaught. They bandits cannot be trusted. Military operations against terrorists should be well funded.”
Earlier, guest speaker, Ambassador Pradeep Sapkota, said the government must conquer hunger to truly address insecurity.
