The African Union (AU) has firmly condemned the establishment of a parallel government in Sudan, urging member states and the international community to reject any entity that seeks to partition the country. This stance comes amidst a brutal conflict between the Sudanese army (SAF) and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF), a war that has claimed tens of thousands of lives and displaced millions. The AU's statement underscores the international community's concern over the potential disintegration of Sudan, a nation already reeling from nearly two years of unrest.

The conflict, which erupted in April 2023, stems from disputes over the integration of the RSF into the army. The RSF and its allies recently signed a “founding charter” in Nairobi, signaling their intent to create a parallel government in rebel-controlled areas. This move has been met with strong opposition, with the AU warning that it carries a significant risk of partitioning the country.

In a related development, the Nigerian government and the European Union (EU) have committed to strengthening diplomatic ties to combat transnational organized crimes. Minister of Police Affairs, Senator Ibrahim Gaidam, hosted the EU Ambassador to Nigeria and ECOWAS, Ambassador Gautier Mignot, to discuss ongoing police reform efforts and seek EU support in this area. The EU's expertise and resources are considered instrumental in implementing these reforms.

The National Counter Terrorism Centre, Office of the National Security Adviser (NCTC-ONSA), has raised concerns over the increasing use of Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs) by terrorists and other criminal gangs. This poses a significant threat to counter-terrorism operations across all operational theatres. The NCTC-ONSA emphasized the need for innovative strategies to counter this threat, given the ease with which IEDs can be fabricated using commercially available materials.

Meanwhile, the Nigerian Senate has directed security agencies to restore peace in Gyaruwa community in Benue State, following a violent youth protest sparked by incessant attacks by bandits. The Senate also urged the Benue State government to enforce open grazing prohibition and ranches establishment law to control the activities of herders operating within the state. In Abuja, police operatives killed a notorious bandit kingpin, Salisu Mohammed, alias “Dogo Saleh”, in a well-coordinated, intelligence-led counter-kidnapping operation.

The EU has also reiterated its commitment to the unity and territorial integrity of Sudan, echoing the AU's concerns about the potential partition of the country. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Sudan has lauded the AU for its firm stance against the RSF, emphasizing the international community's rejection of any attempts to undermine Sudan's sovereignty.

The ongoing conflict in Sudan, coupled with the rising threat of terrorism and banditry in Nigeria, highlights the complex security challenges facing both nations. International cooperation and concerted efforts are crucial to addressing these challenges and promoting peace and stability.