By Gloria Drealomalicha
Presidential aide Daniel Bwala has defended the Federal Government’s approach to tackling kidnapping, insisting that the foremost responsibility of security agencies is to ensure hostages are rescued alive rather than resorting immediately to military force.
Speaking during an appearance on The Morayo Show, Bwala said decisions taken during hostage situations must be guided by the safety of those in captivity, warning that premature use of lethal force could have tragic consequences.
“When you have a case of what we call hostage-taking, the number one responsibility of government is to rescue them and rescue them alive. If you use lethal force, you may end up jeopardising the lives of the people who have been kidnapped,” he said.
Bwala acknowledged that kidnappings often trigger public outrage, with many Nigerians demanding swift and aggressive military action against the perpetrators. However, he stressed that security agencies must carefully assess each situation to avoid endangering innocent lives.
According to him, hostage rescue operations require a delicate balance between neutralising criminals and protecting those being held captive.
He explained that authorities could consider stronger measures if kidnappers begin executing hostages.
“If we hear one person has been killed, then we have to use the other measures available,” he said.
Responding to calls for an immediate military offensive, Bwala questioned whether indiscriminate force would guarantee the safety of those still in captivity.
“Should the government now forcefully begin bombing everywhere looking for them because one person was beheaded, knowing there is a possibility that the rest will be killed? Or tell me what you think we should do?” he asked.
Bwala maintained that such difficult decisions underscore the complex challenges faced by security agencies, noting that while Nigerians understandably demand decisive action against kidnappers, the overriding objective remains securing the safe return of victims.
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