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Human rights lawyer Femi Falana has alleged that funds designated for weapons and logistics in the Nigerian army are being misappropriated by known criminal elements. Speaking in Ilawe-Ekiti, Falana criticized Nigerian judges for releasing individuals accused of embezzling billions of naira intended for arms procurement, which he believes undermines the fight against terrorism and banditry.

He stated that terrorists are now better armed than Nigerian troops. Falana emphasized that the Nigerian Armed Forces could effectively combat insurgents if adequately equipped and motivated. He pointed out that military officers and civilian collaborators are implicated in the theft of security funds, with court rulings enabling their release on technicalities. Specific cases include a former service chief accused of stealing ₦22.8 billion and a former governor charged with embezzling ₦6.9 billion, both of whom were freed by the courts.