25th September, 2015
Nigerian Army has warned those it described as “unscrupulous individuals and their cohorts” specifically in Borno State and the North East in general against activities that may scuttle the ongoing battle against Boko Haram insurgents.
The Army made this warning in a statement of Friday, the same day it announced that that over 200 members of the Boko Haram terrorists’ sect surrendered themselves to the Nigerian troops in strategic and economic important town of Banki, Borno State.
In the statement signed by acting Director, Army Public Relations, Colonel Sani Usman, the military warns that some unnamed individuals and groups are working to reverse the gains made in the battle against terrorism with a view to scuttle troops’ efforts of achieving the Presidential directive to defeat Boko Haram terrorists within three months.
Usman who was not specific on the activities being carried out which the military deemed inimical to the war against terror however said the unnamed “unscrupulous but powerful individuals” are enlisting the services of some Non-Governmental Organizations in the grand design.
In his words: “It has come to our knowledge that they are employing every means to see that our operation does not succeed in order for them to continue to enjoy certain benefits.
“It has been revealed that they are employing the services of marabouts and other unethical means in order to frustrate our efforts and the operations in addition to campaign of calumny.
“We are aware of their clandestine meetings and other diabolical efforts to achieve their nefarious aims. This would not be tolerated. Therefore, such individuals and groups should be warned in unmistakable terms that anyone found would be dealt with accordingly.
“People should place the interest of the nation above any personal gain or ambition. The continued loss of lives and properties in this country through terrorists’ activities does no one any good,” Usman said.
On the capture of Banki town, Usman said over 200 members Boko Haram surrendered to the Nigerian troops during the exercise on Thursday.
Usman said, “Nigerian troops have yesterday captured the economic important and strategic town of Banki in Borno State which is equally noted for fishing.
“Major economic and trading activities between Nigeria, Cameroon and Central African countries takes place in Banki town.
“During the previous encounter Nigerian troops not only recapture the town, but several Boko Haram terrorists were captured alive while the stubborn terrorist armed militants who refused to surrender where killed in the military offensive.