Fidelia Soriwei, Abuja
The Presidency has expressed concern that individuals linked to terrorist groups could be operating within Nigeria’s security agencies, saying such a possibility cannot be completely ruled out.
Speaking on The Link Up Podcast hosted by EchoRoom, President Bola Tinubu’s Special Adviser on Policy Communication, Daniel Bwala, said there have been instances in the past where security personnel were arrested over alleged connections to terrorist activities.
Bwala noted that while the vast majority of security operatives remain committed to their duties, the presence of a few compromised individuals is a challenge that can arise in any country.
According to him, reports of soldiers and police officers being investigated or arrested for alleged terrorist links have surfaced before, underscoring the need for constant vigilance within the security system.
He said the Federal Government has introduced measures to address the threat but declined to reveal details, stressing that public disclosure could jeopardise ongoing security operations.
To illustrate that security breaches are not unique to Nigeria, Bwala referenced former United States intelligence contractor Edward Snowden, whose disclosures exposed vulnerabilities within the American security establishment.
The presidential aide maintained that security agencies are aware of the risks and are taking steps to safeguard national security against internal and external threats.
