Kukah Backs Tough Measures to Restore Security

The Catholic Bishop of Sokoto Diocese, Rev. Matthew Hassan Kukah, has urged Nigeria’s new Minister of Defence to deploy every lawful and necessary measure to end insecurity, insisting that the nation is long overdue for a full restoration of peace, safety, and normalcy.

Speaking shortly after the minister’s screening, Kukah said Nigerians “know what the problem is” and are united in the demand for swift, decisive action against terrorists and violent criminals.

Kukah, who attended the session while representing the Sultan of Sokoto, stated that the President’s recent security appointments suggest a clear intention to “reposition” the national security architecture. “It does seem very clearly that the President wants to reposition issues of security, and I think the situation is in very good hands,” he said.

Reacting to comments made during the screening where the minister-designate suggested that terrorists now require more punitive and firm measures Kukah voiced unequivocal support, stressing that Nigerians are exhausted and deserve immediate relief. “Rain, thunder, sunshine whatever it takes to get this mess under control. These guys need to be flushed out,” he declared.

According to the cleric, the country cannot afford to delay actions that would bring back peace to communities devastated by banditry, kidnappings, and insurgency. He emphasized that laughter and joy must return to Nigerian homes “within the shortest time possible,” adding that all citizens are united in prayer for a breakthrough.

Kukah also revealed that he was at the screening in a dual capacity: as a representative of the Sultan of Sokoto, who sent his greetings, and as a native of Southern Kaduna sharing a coincidental link with the minister designate, who was born in Sokoto but hails from Southern Kaduna. He described the session as symbolic and encouraging, given the leadership expectations placed on the new minister.

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The bishop, a long-standing advocate for national cohesion and justice, reiterated that insecurity remains Nigeria’s most urgent challenge. He argued that the situation requires clarity of purpose, full political backing, and a non-negotiable commitment from the military and security agencies. “Everybody knows what the problem is. We just need restoration of normalcy in this country by any means possible,” he said.

Kukah added that the country has endured years of instability, trauma, and economic dislocation due to insurgency and banditry. He maintained that any credible strategy whether through more robust military operations, intelligence restructuring, or community engagement must focus on ending the violence decisively and quickly.

While offering prayers for wisdom and strength for the incoming minister, the cleric reminded Nigerians that security transformation is a shared responsibility requiring unity, patience, and support for constitutional actions taken by the government.

As expectations rise ahead of the minister’s resumption of office, Kukah’s remarks reflect a broader national sentiment: Nigerians want results, not rhetoric, and they want them urgently. “All we do is pray for the best,” he concluded.