In recent weeks, Nigeria has witnessed a disturbing surge in violent attacks against its security operatives, raising fresh concerns about the nation’s worsening insecurity. Reports show that in September alone, more than 50 security personnel were killed in different states by suspected bandits, militias, and terrorists.

The Nigerian Police Force and the Army have been the worst hit, alongside operatives of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), vigilante groups, and local community watch outfits. Alarmingly, many of these deadly incidents remain underreported.

Bloodshed Across States

On September 19, suspected herdsmen and local militias ambushed a joint security team in Katsina-Ala, Benue State, killing at least 11 operatives. Reports suggest that the attackers were aided by an informant within the security ranks, raising fears of deep infiltration. This attack added to the 80 security personnel killed in Benue within the past year.

Just days later, gunmen struck in Kogi State, killing five police officers in separate attacks across Yagba East and Lokoja LGAs. Earlier in the month, three officers were also gunned down in Egbe, a border town with Kwara State.

The violence extended to Zamfara State, where bandits ambushed soldiers on patrol, killing five. In Borno State, terrorists raided a military barracks in Bama LGA, leaving two soldiers dead.

Edo State was not spared either. On September 5, gunmen attacked NSCDC personnel attached to the BUA Cement Factory in Okpella, killing eight operatives. A week later, another officer was ambushed and killed along Katsina’s Yantumaki–Danmusa Road.

The Bigger Picture

The killings are not isolated incidents. Between January 2023 and October 2024, at least 229 police officers were reportedly murdered by armed groups. Analysts say the trend reflects a troubling collapse of security coordination and intelligence.

Why Are Security Forces Vulnerable?

Security experts have raised alarm over infiltration within the agencies. According to Mr. Abayomi Oyelade, “You can’t defeat your enemies when insiders are collaborating with them. Some operatives leak operational plans in exchange for money—blood money.”

He added that simple strategies such as cutting off telecom services in targeted areas during operations could cripple bandits’ ability to communicate and organize ambushes.

Similarly, Afenifere spokesman, Comrade Jare Ajayi, stressed the need to identify internal saboteurs while investing in modern technology such as drones, CCTV, and intelligence gadgets. He also emphasized the importance of motivating frontline officers who risk their lives daily.