Ex-presidential candidate calls for broader anti-terror strategy

Olawepo Hashim, a former presidential candidate, issued a statement on Saturday regarding the fight against terrorism in Nigeria, specifically addressing the killing of Abu Bilal al Minuki, a senior Islamic State commander. He urged the Federal Government to adopt a more comprehensive counter-terrorism strategy that goes beyond merely targeting insurgent leaders.

Hashim highlighted the importance of international cooperation in combating terrorism, citing the achievements made through collaborative efforts over the past five years. He warned that the Islamic State's agenda includes establishing enclaves in northern Nigeria and cautioned against relying solely on military strikes, which can lead to retaliatory attacks on rural communities.

Hashim pointed out that over 18,000 Nigerians have been killed due to terrorism-related violence in the past three years, with poverty, unemployment, and social deprivation being significant drivers of insecurity. He emphasized that addressing terrorism requires not only military action but also strong governance to confront the socio-economic realities that sustain violent extremism, particularly in the North East, where groups like the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) operate.