President Buhari hails Army Chief, soldiers for conquering Sambisa forest

General Buratai, saluting the Commander in Chief of the
Armed Forces, Fed Republic of Nigeria,
Muhammadu Buhari 

By Blogger

The Nigerian president, a retired military General, has on Saturday sent out words of praise to the Nigerian chief of army staff Lieutenant General Tukur Buratai for leading own troops to conquer the dreaded Sambisa forest.

Sambisa, a former forest reserve of Borno state government has been the main hideout and hell hole of the Boko Haram insurgents in the past seven years.

Boko Haram had maintained control of the area using it as their main training ground and fortress.

The forest has a very unfriendly terrain that is mostly difficult to traverse especially during the wet seasons.

The Boko Haram fighters took advantage of such difficult geography that they in most cases understand  better than the soldiers, by continuing to use it as a shield.

The area was said to have been dotted with hundreds of landmines which had caused the death of many soldiers attempting to invade it.

But with persistence and continued review os stratagem, the troops finally overcome the myths of Sambisa. The forest eventually fell following the launch of Operation Grand Finale by the Chief of Army Staff in October.

The liberation of Sambisa synchronised with the rescue of 21 more Chibok schoolgirls.

The president was happy that troops under his watchful command were able to achieve what cynics predicted might never happen.

He did not hide his delight in a letter he sent out to the soldiers. 

"I am delighted at, and most proud of the gallant troops of the Nigerian Army, on receipt of the long-awaited and most gratifying news of the final crushing of Boko Haram terrorists in their last enclave in Sambisa Forest.

"I want to use this opportunity to commend the determination, courage and resilience of troops of Operation Lafiya Dole at finally entering and crushing the remnants of the Boko Haram insurgents at "Camp Zero", which is located deep within the heart of Sambisa Forest.

Gallant troops celebrating victory of Boko Haram 

"I was told by the Chief of Army Staff that the Camp fell at about 1:35pm on Friday, December 22, and that the terrorists are on the run, and no longer have a place to hide.  I urge you to maintain the tempo by pursuing them and bringing them to justice.

"I, therefore, call on all Nigerians to cooperate and support the Nigerian Armed Forces and other security agencies by providing useful information that will expose all the terrorists hiding among the populace.
Further efforts should be intensified to locate and free our remaining Chibok girls still in captivity. May God be with them.

"I also want to congratulate and commend the able leadership of the Nigerian Army in particular and indeed, that of the Armed Forces in general, for making this possible. This, no doubt, will go a long way in improving the security situation not only in the North East, but the country in general.  But we must not let our guards down.

"Once more, congratulations to our troops and all who, in one way or the other, contributed to this most commendable and momentous effort. May the Almighty continue to be with you.
"I wish you a Merry Christmas and a most rewarding and peaceful Year 2017 ahead". 

MUHAMMADU BUHARI
PRESIDENT OF THE FEDERAL REPUBLIC OF NIGERIA
December 24, 2016.

Army alerts Nigerians on escaping Boko Haram insurgents as troops clear Sambisa forest

By Blogger

Authorities at the Nigeria Army Headquarters, Abuja,  have on Friday issued a red alert that escaping Boko Haram insurgents are infiltrating communities within northeast Nigeria.

The spokesman of the Nigeria Army, Brigadier General Sani Kukasheka Usman, said in a statement that some of the outgunned Boko Haram insurgents are fleeing their hideouts in Sambisa forests following troop's invasion.

"The Nigerian Army wishes to inform the public that due to the ongoing final clearance and occupation of Boko Haram terrorists hideouts in Sambisa forest, quite a number of them are escaping the theatre of operation in the North East to various parts of the country and elsewhere", said Colonel Usman, an acting Director army public relations.

He said the insurgents'  likely escape destinations are communities within the northeast of Nigeria.

"Therefore, members of the public especially residents of Adamawa, Borno and Yobe States, are hereby requested to be extra vigilant, security conscious of strange movements or persons in the society.

"The public are also please requested to report any suspicious person or group of persons to the security agencies for prompt action.

"We wish to reiterate our commitment of clearing the remnants of the Boko Haram terrorists in all their suspected hideouts by the end of this year. We therefore solicit for more public support and cooperation to achieve that".

The army has also denied rumor that another set of Chibok schoolgirls have been released by the Boko Haram.

Brigadier General Usman had responded to journalists' enquiries  on the issue via a WhatsApp message saying "it is not true".

The presidency had also denied the saame report.

The Theatre Commander, Operation Lafiya Dole, MajorGeneral Lucky Irabor, had on Wednesday said though that "own troops" have occupied virtually most part of Sambisa forest, where the girls are believed to have been kept, there hasnt been sign of the girls. He said over 1000 persons, mostly females, have been rescued in the past weeks and none of them are Chibok girls.

"We are still hopeful on finding the Chibok schoolgirls;  the operation is not over yet. And in due course we should be able to find the Chibok girls", he said.

Our Troops Are In Good Form Inside Sambisa - General Irabor

Today, I am glad to inform you that our troops have continued to record astounding progress in the fight against Boko Haram Terrorists (BHTs) since the last time we met. Some of the major successes recorded within the period are:

a. Update on Operation RESCUE FINALE. The operation in Sambisa Forest has continued. So far, our troops have cleared and dominated almost the whole of SAMBISA Forest including BHT enclaves at GONERI, GONI KURMI, ALAFA 1, 2 and 3, BULA BELLO and NJIMIA. Others are AMDAGA, BITTA, SASSAWA, TOKOMBERE, JEFE, NDENEMA, TURORI and SAMBISA Gate 1. For ease of understanding the incursion into Sambisa, let me give you a graphical explanation of the operation as shown on the screen.

b. Destruction of a Vehicle Borne Improvised Explosive Device. Following BHT attack on own troops at their harbour area in BULA BELLO on 13 Dec 16 at about 1541hrs, own troops conducted mop up operations at BHT staging areas of attack on 14 Dec 16 at about 0700hrs. During the mop up, own troops discovered and destroyed a VBIED which was blown by our RPG. Troops also recovered one GPMG, one FN magazine loaded with 20 rounds of 7.62mm ammunition, 156 quantities of 7.62mm NATO links and one RPG bomb.

c. Ambush by Own Troops. Own troops have conducted some ambushes on BHTs during the period. These include:
(1) On 15 Dec 16 at about 0806hrs, own troops in conjunction with members of vigilante sprang an ambush to BAREMA Farm along GONIRI – DAMBOA road. The troops apprehended suspected BHTs and sympathizers comprising 20 men and 61 members of their families. The suspects were relocated from FULUS village north of KAFA village in KAGA LGA of Borno State to GONIRI. Suspects are undergoing investigation.
(2) On 17 Dec 16 at about 0900hrs, own troops sprung an ambush along PULKA - BANKI junction where they intercepted and engaged some BHT members at a crossing point in FIRGI. Two BHT members were killed in action while a boy of about 12 years with the BHT was injured in the process. The boy claimed he was captured by the BHT and he has been evacuated to our hospital for further treatment. Items recovered include a motorcycle with spare tyre, one  AK 47 with 28 rounds of ammunition and a suicide bomber vest strapped on one of the killed BHT which was safely removed.

d. Person Borne Improvise Explosive Devices. During the period under review, own troops had to contain few incidences of person borne improvise explosive devices:

(1) On 15 Dec 16 at about 0810hrs, 2 female suicide bombers clad in hijab attempted to infiltrate own defensive forward line at LIMANKARA. They were shot by own troops when they refused to halt at a distance. Consequently, the IED vests strapped on their bodies exploded and killed the 2 suicide bombers.

(2) Again, on 15 Dec 16 at about 1030hrs, own troops deployed at RANN intercepted a girl strapped in suicide vest trying to infiltrate into RANN town. A member of the CJTF grabbed and suppressed her as she was attempting to detonate the explosive device strapped on her thereby unable to detonate it. The vest was later safely removed from her.

(3) Another incidence was on 18 Dec 15 where 2 suicide bombers attempted to sneak pass troops location at MAFA check point. The 2 suicide bombers were shot when they failed to stop at a distance. The explosive devices detonated and killed the 2 suicide bombers.

(4) Similarly, on 18 Dec 16 at about 2055hrs, own troops sighted 2 suicide bombers trying to cross into town through GALMERI village. The suspects were challenged by troops from a distance when one of the 2 suicide bombers panicked. She immediately detonated the suicide vest strapped on her body killing herself and the other male suicide bomber. However, the suicide vest on the second male did not explode. The 2 suicide bombers were killed while 3 civilians sustained minor injuries. The injured civilians were evacuated to Maiduguri general hospital for medical attention. The Nigeria Police EOD team was contacted to neutralize the unexploded suicide vest while NEMA and ICRC were contacted for clearing of the mutilated body parts and also to disinfect the area.

Comments on IED.  Let me add that I have requested the Commissioners of Police of Borno and Adamawa States, the State Director, Department of State Services Borno State and other security Agencies to heighten their operations in order to eradicate cases of IEDs/Suicide Bombings.  

e. Clearance Patrol. Own troops conducted some clearance operations in suspected BHT enclaves:
(1) On 15 Dec 16 at about 1115hrs, own troops conducted a robust clearance operations in the general areas of KANGARWA, METELE, DOGON CHUKU and environs. The troops cleared all BHT enclaves in both KANGARWA and METELE villages killing one BHT and capturing an elderly man who confessed to be the Amir of the adjoining Tumbus ahead of DOGON CHUKU. The arrested BHT Amir later died of gunshot wounds. However, one of own vehicles was destroyed by a BHT RPG fire and one soldier was wounded in action. He is currently recuperating in our hospital.

(2) On 18 Dec 16 at about 0830hrs, own troops conducted clearance operation to MASA village, GULUMBA GANA, ARICINGORI and ZANGERI villages. Troops   rescued 67 female adults, 23 male children and 19 female children held hostages at MASA village. On 19 Dec 16 at about 0645hrs, troops advanced to GULUMBA GANA where troops met BHT resistance.

Troops engaged the BHT in a fierce battle and later dislodged them and killing 15 BHT. Weapons and BHT flags were captured. Also, 18 motor cycles and 25 bicycles were burnt. Troops also discovered 4 solar panels and 2 spare tyres. Sadly, a soldier was killed in action while another was wounded in action and were evacuated by air for further treatment. 

f. Rescue of Fishermen. On 18 Dec 16 at about 1010hrs, own troops in gunboat received a distress call from fishermen around NGADIYA village about BHT members that captured some fishermen. Immediately, our troops mobilised and embarked on a rescue operation. The troops made contact with BHTs and cleared same. Fifteen fishermen were rescued while one fisherman was killed in action and another taken away by BHT.

g. Interception of Suspected Rustled Rams/Sheep. On 16 Dec16 at about 1605hrs, own troops deployed at FOB DIKWA in conjunction with vigilante intercepted 57 rams and sheep at a BHT suspected crossing point along DIKWA – AJIRI road. The animals which are suspected to have been rustled were intercepted without owners and are currently in own custody to be handed over to the appropriate body.

h. Release of Detainees to Borno State Government.    On 16 Dec 16 at about 1730hrs, a total of 299 cleared detainees were released to Borno State Government from our detention centre in Maiduguri. The released detainees were received by the representative of the state Government. In attendance were members of CJTF, affected LGA representatives and a team of UNICEF staff who donated some relief items to the released women and children.

i. Handover of IDPs. On 15 Dec 16 at about 0930hrs, a total of 116 men, 147 women and 248 children of Nigerian nationality were handed over to own troops at BANKI by Cameroonian Forces. They were screened and moved to the IDP camp. However, 8 BHT suspects were identified among them by the resident IDPs in the camp. The suspects are in custody undergoing preliminary interrogation.

j. Suspected BHT Escapees. On 16 Dec 16 at about 1305hrs following a tip off from locals, own troops in conjunction with members of vigilante apprehended 2 suspected BHT female escapees along AZARE general area. The woman revealed that they came out from Sambisa Forest. The escapees are undergoing interrogation.

k. Discovery of Ammunition. In the morning of today, 600 rounds of 7.62mm (NATO) ammunition were discovered hidden in a plastic container and buried in a River around the Gwange area of Maiduguri. Investigation is on-going.

During our operations in the period 14 – 21 Dec 16, a total of 1880 civilians were rescued from BHT enclaves. Similarly, between 14 – 21 Dec 16, a total of 564 BHT members were arrested while 19 others surrendered to our troops. Also, 7 suspected kidnappers and 37 foreigners were equally arrested.

2. Road Construction. Own troops operating in Sambisa Forest embarked on earth road construction task to further assist our operations. The road construction is on different fronts.

3. Logistics Re-Supply. Within the period, some logistics items, including arms, ammunition and spare parts for equipment among others, were received.

4. Online Video Alleging Maltreatment of Soldiers. There is an online video circulated by some media organisations to portray the alleged maltreatment of soldiers by not providing them with water and food. The video clip was shot on 31 Mar 16, by some mischievous and disgruntled elements when our troops captured Alagarno Forest during Operation CRACKDOWN on 28 Mar 16. The Board of Inquiry which instituted to investigate the matter, actually showed that as at the time of the incident, the unit's water tanker still contained water but a soldier mischievously concealed it. That soldier was charged and punished accordingly. In addition to the unit's water tanker, a borehole was subsequently drilled at the location. It is disheartening that some malicious elements have decided to circulate it now that our troops are recording huge successes in the defeating BHTs, thereby creating the false impression that it is a recent occurrence. Let us know that issues of national security are serious and must be treated with caution. Those who are quick at circulating unsubstantiated occurrences for whatever reasons must be weary of the frankenstein monster. They may be the first to be consumed.

NEGATIVE AND MISGUIDED PUBLICATIONS  
5. I wish to observe the unfortunate development within a section of the Media who have, knowingly or unknowingly, chosen the negative path to incite the troops and denigrate the good efforts of Op LAFIYA DOLE.

Specifically, Premium Times, have repeatedly shown a pattern of reports disparaging the very noble and gallant efforts of troops. It has consistently worked, in futility, to cause disaffection among troops of Op LAFIYA DOLE. During the setback in Gashagar, which I earlier informed the public, Premium Times worked to promote the evil action of Boko Haram

Terrorists by its publication. Every publication from Premium Times either eulogizes Boko Haram or mischievously emphasise, beyond proportion, the challenges of Op LAFIYA DOLE. The latest being that Premium Times reported that:
a. 'Gunshots, confusion in Borno as soldiers Fighting Boko Haram go on Rampage.
b. Nigerian Army General who lied about troops' Mutiny escapes lynching by hungry soldiers'.

6. What a hateful representation of the Medium's wishes for the troops! Interestingly, on the said date of mutiny, I was in the frontlines in Bula Bello accompanied by the Ag GOC 7 Div and Comd 21 Bde, with the same troops that Premium Times claimed to have turned against their officers. One may ask, could it be that Premium Times is working to frustrate the gains that have been made in this operation? Is the platform not happy that the war is coming to an end? Could they be working with Boko Haram Terrorists to ensure that the morale of the troops are dampened at this crucial stage of ending the war? The rescue of over 1,500 people, capture of suicide Bombers alive among many other brave performances of troops are not worthy of Premium Times' coverage? Was Premium Times established to promote evil and insecurity? These and many more are the questions the public may wish to find out from Premium Times.        

7. Whilst noting that the position of Premium Times is isolated, the rest of the Media have shown patriotism, commitment and support for the operation. I wish to therefore commend these patriotic Media Houses and urge them to continue in that regard. I equally wish to request the Nigerian Guild of Editors, the NUJ as well as other         well-meaning Nigerians including those from the North East, to rise up and defend their national security interest that is being attacked using the instrumentality of the mischieve being perpetrated by Premium Times.

8. To the members of the public, I urge you all to remain vigilant and report any suspicious movement of persons and objects to the military or to the nearest security agencies. The general public, especially the female students of our tertiary institutions, are urged to be weary of new subtle way of recruitment by suspected BHTs on the internet. Do not fall victim of such trap by being their agents or sympathizer. You have the ability to grow and be productive. Do not join them in any way because BHT ideology is ungodly and the end is always a wasteful life. The BHT may also disguise as menial workers when actually they are fleeing from our onslaught.
9. On this note, let me thank everyone and state that we remain ever committed to the mandate of Op LAFIYA DOLE. Thank you.

LEO IRABOR
Maiduguri Major General
December 2016  Theatre Commander
Operation LAFIYA DOLE

Operation Python Dance: Southeast Governor, Senator back Nigerian Army

Operation Python Dance: Southeast Governor, Senator back Nigerian Army
Abdulkareem Haruna

Governor of Anambra State, Mr Willie Obiano, has Tuesday, in Enugu, defended the operations of the Nigeria Army in the southeast region, saying that the army is not an army of occupation.

Similarly, at a seperate event, the Senator representing Imo north senatorial district, Mr. Benjamin Uwajumogu, has charged Nigerians  to "always strive  to lend their support to the Military" in its quest towards protecting the nation's territorial integrity.

Senator Uwajumogu gave this charge on Tuesday at the opening ceremony of the 2016 annual Chief of Army Staff's Conference,  themed 'Consolidating on the Gains of Counter Insurgency Operations Towards achieving National Security in Nigeria'.

According to a statement issued by the Director Army Public Relations, Colonel Sani Kukasheka Usman, the Imo Senator who is also a member of the Senate Committee on Army, made the remark whilie representing the committee Chairman, Senator George Akume at the event.

"Senator Uwajumogu also assured that the Senate through its committee on Army, would continue to support the Army in its quest for a more united, peaceful, safe  and prosperous Nigeria", the statement reads.

"On the proposed launch of its security strategy code-named "Operation Python Dance" in the south east zone of the country, the Imo north Senator however called on the people of the zone not to panic with the obvious presence of the Military in their areas, as the exercise was aimed at adequately securing their environments, especially at this yuletide.

"He emphasized the total and increased collaboration between the Army and the Civilian population, adding that through intelligence sharing between them and other security outfits in the country, Nigeria would continue to remain one of the safest places to live in.

"He recalled the giant strides by the Military in the ongoing war against the Boko Haram  insurgency in the North eastern part of the country, noting that the sterling performance of the Military have further reposed the confidence Nigerians have in them as the number one force in Africa.

"Senator Uwajumogu, also thanked the Chief of Army staff, Lt. General Tukur Buratai, for his consistency in exhibiting first class leadership skills aimed at redeeming the  image of the Nigerian Army.

In an earlier event in Enugu, Governor Obiano who hosted the visiting chief of army staff, Lieutenant General Tukur Buratai,  said the army meant well for the entire country.

"The Nigerian Army is not an army of occupation as being portrayed by some mischievous elements on the Internet", said executive Governor of Anambra State.

The Chief of Army Staff said under his watch, the Nigeria Army has been able to comply with the basic rules of engagement in discharging its constitutional roles.

He however allayed the fears of the people on  the issue of the operation Python dance.

"We will ensure that our troops conduct themselves professionally and responsibly during Exercise PYTHON DANCE".

The Nigeria army has recently launched Operation Python Dance, a simulation military training exercise designed to improve soldiers belligerent skills in the southeast.

But the exercise was being perceived as a ploy of the Federal Government of Nigeria  to clamp down on the southeastern region especially to frustrate the Biafran agitation which seeks an independent nation for most of the Igbo speaking southeast states.

The non term Python Dance may have been adopted from from the Republic of South Africa's legendary dance known Python Dance
or Venda Snake dance.

The Python Dance is usually  performed as a pre-marital initiation ceremony for young girls, which normally hold at the instance of the chiefs as the winter approaches.

Amidst some esoteric lores surrounding the tradition, the python dance is conducted when a young damsel attains puberty. The village chief choses his next wife during the ceremony.

Young girls will parade themselves as they  "dance fluidly, like a snake, to the beat of a drum, while forming a chain by holding the forearm of the person in front".

Once a wife has been chosen, the tribe spend the next few days with grooming and courting rituals.

Perhaps the Operation Python Dance of the Nigeria Army  is a metaphor for the  training of soldiers ahead a bigger task that borders on national security.

Yuletide; Army chief greets frontline troops, declares December final month of war against Boko Haram

Yuletide; Army chief greets frontline troops,  declares December final month of war against Boko Haram 
Abdulkareem Haruna
The chief of army staff Lieutenant General Tukur Buratai has Sunday sends out a first of its kind yuletide motivational  greetings to  soldiers  fighting Boko Haram insurgents in northeast Nigeria even as he declared December as a make or mar month for the troops.
General Buratai who wished the soldier a happy yuletide said he would join the troops to celebrate Christmas and new year when the time comes.
The number one soldier had also directed all field commanders at the Operation Lafiya Dole Theater command to step up their strategies and belligerent experiences in a manner that Boko Haram would be rooted out once and for all.
While urging the troops to be ruthless with unyielding members of Boko Haram in the remaining days of the year, he however admonished them to treat  all captured or surrendered Boko Haram insurgents with sense of humane in accordance witj the international humanitarian law. 
"December is a month of decision. It is either we succeed in clearing the remnants of Boko Haram terrorists or we continue to live in perpetual circle of their atrocities in the North East", said General Buratai.
He said he intends to conclude the war against Boko Haram and return every surviving soldier back to their barracks come 2017.
His full letter to the troops as made available by the Director Army Public Relations, Colonel Sani Kukasheka Usman, reads:- 

1. I am sending to you all, the troops of Operation LAFIYA DOLE best wishes as the Yuletide period approaches, I commend you for your sacrifices, commitment, loyalty and courage in the service of our fatherland. I wish to make this call to action and wake up call to you all and to emphasize that we must immediately begin to embark on the final aggressive action and comprehensive sweep of the operational theatre with a view to ending the operation on a very high note. In this regard, no stone should be left unturned. I therefore call on all officers and soldiers to buckle up and ensure that remnants of Boko Haram terrorists are completely cleared.  

2. I hope to be with you sometime this month to motivate and positively influence the ongoing operations.  This is with a view to having a colourful end of year and peaceful Yuletide in the North East and indeed Nigeria. I urge all commanders to plan and embark on effective patrols, raids, ambushes and deliberate attacks in conjunction with other Services especially the Nigerian Air Force and Nigerian Navy to rescue all those abducted by the terrorists. 

3. I also wish to remind all troops that captured and surrendered Boko Haram terrorists must be treated humanely and fairly and in strict accordance with the provisions of International Humanitarian Law and Laws of Armed Conflict.  In doing so, we must be prepared to enter all fortresses, camps, dens and enclaves of the Boko Haram to completely flush them out and dominate these areas to ensure they are not reoccupied. 

4. I wish to reiterate that December is a month of decision. It is either we succeed in clearing the remnants of Boko Haram terrorists or we continue to live in perpetual circle of their atrocities in the North East.  I hereby want to reassure all troops that I intend to return everybody back to Barracks in 2017 only leaving behind a strong, highly mobile, effective and motivated force that will continue to do the good work that we have already started. In this regard we shall also bring reassurances to the populace as normalcy finally returns to the area.    

5. I consequently, call on all troops to remain focused, disciplined, loyal, dedicated and patriotic to their duties and to Mr President and 
Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces Federal Republic of Nigeria.  

6. Thank you all and God bless.
- Lieutenant General Tukur Yusuf Buratai 
Chief of Army Staff

--

Abdulkareem Haruna Assistant Editor/Northeast Zonal Editor PREMIUM TIMES +2347034246574 +2347016614476 Twitter: @kareem1575

Yuletide; Army chief greets frontline troops, declares December final month of war against Boko Haram

Yuletide; Army chief greets frontline troops,  declares December final month of war against Boko Haram
Abdulkareem Haruna

The chief of army staff Lieutenant General Tukur Buratai has Sunday sends out a first of its kind yuletide motivational  greetings to  soldiers  fighting Boko Haram insurgents in northeast Nigeria even as he declared December as a make or mar month for the troops.

General Buratai who wished the soldier a happy yuletide said he would join the troops to celebrate Christmas and new year when the time comes.

The number one soldier had also directed all field commanders at the Operation Lafiya Dole Theater command to step up their strategies and belligerent experiences in a manner that Boko Haram would be rooted out once and for all.

While urging the troops to be ruthless with unyielding members of Boko Haram in the remaining days of the year, he however admonished them to treat  all captured or surrendered Boko Haram insurgents with sense of humane in accordance witj the international humanitarian law.

"December is a month of decision. It is either we succeed in clearing the remnants of Boko Haram terrorists or we continue to live in perpetual circle of their atrocities in the North East", said General Buratai.

He said he intends to conclude the war against Boko Haram and return every surviving soldier back to their barracks come 2017.

His full letter to the troops as made available by the Director Army Public Relations, Colonel Sani Kukasheka Usman, reads:-

1. I am sending to you all, the troops of Operation LAFIYA DOLE best wishes as the Yuletide period approaches, I commend you for your sacrifices, commitment, loyalty and courage in the service of our fatherland. I wish to make this call to action and wake up call to you all and to emphasize that we must immediately begin to embark on the final aggressive action and comprehensive sweep of the operational theatre with a view to ending the operation on a very high note. In this regard, no stone should be left unturned. I therefore call on all officers and soldiers to buckle up and ensure that remnants of Boko Haram terrorists are completely cleared. 

2. I hope to be with you sometime this month to motivate and positively influence the ongoing operations.  This is with a view to having a colourful end of year and peaceful Yuletide in the North East and indeed Nigeria. I urge all commanders to plan and embark on effective patrols, raids, ambushes and deliberate attacks in conjunction with other Services especially the Nigerian Air Force and Nigerian Navy to rescue all those abducted by the terrorists.

3. I also wish to remind all troops that captured and surrendered Boko Haram terrorists must be treated humanely and fairly and in strict accordance with the provisions of International Humanitarian Law and Laws of Armed Conflict.  In doing so, we must be prepared to enter all fortresses, camps, dens and enclaves of the Boko Haram to completely flush them out and dominate these areas to ensure they are not reoccupied.

4. I wish to reiterate that December is a month of decision. It is either we succeed in clearing the remnants of Boko Haram terrorists or we continue to live in perpetual circle of their atrocities in the North East.  I hereby want to reassure all troops that I intend to return everybody back to Barracks in 2017 only leaving behind a strong, highly mobile, effective and motivated force that will continue to do the good work that we have already started. In this regard we shall also bring reassurances to the populace as normalcy finally returns to the area.   

5. I consequently, call on all troops to remain focused, disciplined, loyal, dedicated and patriotic to their duties and to Mr President and
Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces Federal Republic of Nigeria. 

6. Thank you all and God bless.

- Major General Tukur Yusuf Buratai
Chief of Army Staff

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UN hails Nigeria Army for promoting international best standards among soldiers

UN hails Nigeria Army for promoting international best standards among soldiers
By Blogger

The United Nations Organization (UNO) has commended the Nigerian Army for being professional in handling Boko Haram terrorism and insurgency especially  in the North East Nigeria, saying their conduct was exemplary and  it is in line with international best practices .

The Special Assistant to United Nations Secretary General (SRSG), Office for West Africa, His Excellency, (Doctor) Mohammad Ibn Chambas gave this commendation during the UN solidarity visit to the Chief of Army Staff Nigerian Army, Lieutenant General Tukur Yusufu Buratai in his office, at the Headquarters of the Theatre Command of Operation LAFIYA DOLE in Maimalari Cantonment, Maiduguri, Borno State.

According to a statement issued by the spokesman of the Nigeria Army, Colonel Sani Kukasheka Usman, the delegation said "the UN has been explicit and consistent in condemning the activities of the Boko Haram terrorists in the region".

He went further to commend Nigeria's neighbouring countries for collaborating with Nigeria in fighting the common terrorists. 

He said the UN was conscious of the hardship caused to the people of Nigeria as a result of the activities of the BHT and promised the United Nations readiness in collaboration with other Non-governmental organizations (NGOs) to bring succour to the affected persons.

Mr Mohammad also extended his appreciation to the Borno State Government, National Emergency Agency (NEMA), State Emergency Agency (SEMA) and other Humanitarian Agencies in providing succour for the Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) in the North East saying the UN will do everything possible to support, rehabilitate and resettle the victims of this menace. He also used the opportunity of the visit to pay tribute to Nigerian military personnel that lost their lives in the cause of the conflict,  describing them as heroes, whom he said paid the supreme prize for others to live.

In his response, the Chief of Army Staff, thanked the UN chief for the visit, kind  commendation and promise of continuous support to the fight against Boko Haram terrorists in Nigeria. He also thanked the world body for all the support given to the Multinational Joint Task Force (MNJTF) especially at the formation stage of the Task Force when he was the pioneer Force Commander, saying that the MNJTF has achieved a lot in the fight against terrorism, which he attributed to the solid foundation at its take off.

"The Chief of Army Staff promised to continue to lead the Nigerian Army until the terrorists surrendered to the Federal Government of Nigeria", said the army spokesman. .

Mr Chambas was accompanied on the visit by some top diplomats of the United Nations.

Soldiers ​kill​ three female suicide bombers in Maiduguri

By Abdulkareem Haruna
Soldiers have in the early hours of Friday shot down three women; all strapped with explosive device on their bodies while attempting to invade Maiduguri, the Borno state capital, officials said.

Echoing explosions reverberated over the sleepy city as two of the improvised explosives devices on the bodies of the women went off, killing three of them.

Police Public Relations officer, Mr. Victor Isuku, a deputy superintendent of police confirmed the incident in a text message sent out via his office's WhatsApp handle.

"This morning at about 0530hrs, three (3) female suicide bombers with IED strapped to their bodies were sighted by military patrol team in Umarari village, near Mulai towards Maiduguri", he said. 

"They were promptly gun down and the IED on two of them exploded killing all three of them. The unexploded IED on the third was rendered safe and detonated by Police bomb disposal Unit who promptly mobilized to the scene".

Boko Haram's hostility, especially suicide bombing attacks, has increased since the release of 21 Chibok schoolgirls mid October.

Borno state police commissioner, Mr. Damian Chukwu has recently blamed the upsurge of attacks by Boko Haram attacks on the coming of the dry season, which gives the insurgents ample access routes to invade the city through bush paths. 

CHIEF OF ARMY STAFF, LT. GEN. TUKUR BURATAI DOES NOT EXPLOIT OR STEAL SOLDIERS MONEY - Colonel Usman

An online medium had recently published a news story in which some unnamed Nigeria soldier was said to have granted interview alleging that the Nigeria Army chief, Lieutenant General Tukur Buratai was pilfering with their allowances for personal benefit.

Much as a cross section of Nigerians as well fellow journalists were appalled by the gross display of the dearth professionalism amply displayed by the author and publishers of that unbalanced news piece, the spokesman of the Nigeria Army, Colonel Sani Kukasheka Usman had to issue a rebuttal in response to that publication.

In the rejoinder titled "Buratai exploits us, steals our money and throw us away - Nigerian soldiers", Colonel Usman, an acting director army public relations, had described the publication as "deliberate hatchet man's job".

The rejoinder reads as follows:-

"The attention of the Nigerian Army has been drawn to a deliberate and calculated attempt to drag the name of the Nigerian Army and indeed the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Tukur Yusufu Buratai into disrepute through a fabricated news story based on an imaginary complaint by a fictitious soldier of the Nigerian Army on an online news medium, naij.com, titled "Buratai exploits us, steals our money and throw us away-Nigerian soldiers".

"Their allegations were so generalized without any specifics. Because it was a deliberate hatchet man's job, they failed to state basic information about when, where and how the fictitious soldier was shortchanged and the steps taken before going to the press.

"Over time, the medium was fond of such publications without giving the Nigerian Army the benefit of doubt.

"In the write up, the medium made all manner of absurd allegations using most uncivilized language. This is wrong and unethical and goes contrary to all known ethics of the journalism profession.

"It is imperative to unequivocally state that all the contents of that news piece were far from the truth. The Nigerian Army and the Chief of Army Staff take pride in the comfort and general well being of troops wherever they might be. It is therefore very wicked and unimaginable for anyone to allege otherwise. The Chief of Army Staff since assumption of command on 15th July 2015 has made probity and accountability his hallmark and has left no one in doubt on transparency and accountability and would not tolerate anyone doing otherwise.

"In their efforts to smear the Nigerian Army and Lieutenant General Buratai, they failed to take into account that the Nigerian Army does not have hand in the release of funds for payment of allowances and remunerations of troops on Peacekeeping Operations, and as such, the situation they were talking about does not even arise.

"For the avoidance of doubt, the Ministry of Defence through the Defence Headquarters  is responsible for foreign operations and  troops allowances are paid according to availability of funds and schedule of payment given by the Defence Headquarters. The last one received has been credited into the respective troops accounts.

"Therefore,  Nigerian Army troops  on various peacekeeping and other operations have to the best of our knowledge been paid up to date as released by Ministry of Defence through the Defence Headquarters.

"We want to assure the general public that the Nigerian Army will remain focused and never to be distracted from it's noble cause of defending and securing the country from all forms of criminality".

Troops gun down 4 cattle rustlers, arrest 3 kidnappers in Zamfara, Kaduna

Troops gun down 4 cattle rustlers, arrest 3 kidnappers in Zamfara, Kaduna

Abdulkareem Haruna

Troops of the Nigeria army had Wednesday carried out a raid of armed bandits and kidnappers hideout in Zamfara and Kaduna states during which four cattle rustlers were killed, an official statement said.

The troops who are deployed under the 'Operation Sharan Daji' a special military campaign aimed at dislodging all camps and hide outs of armed criminals, had also arrested three suspected kidnappers at some bush locations in Kaduna State.

Spokesman of the Nigeria Army, Colonel Sani Kukasheka Usman, made this known in a terse statemented issued electronically to media houses.

Colonel Usman, an acting director army public relations, said the operations were carried out by "troops of 1 Division Nigerian Army deployed on Operation SHARAN DAJI".

He said the operation that was carried out on Wednesday 18th October 2016, was a "raid on livestock rustlers and armed bandits' camp at Barikin Daji forest near Masafa village in Talata Mafara Local Government Area of Zamfara State"

"During the operation, the troops killed 4 bandits, recovered a motorcycle and destroyed all the camps at the forest", he said.

"Similarly troops of the same formation, in conjunction with local vigilante also carried out similar operation at the notorious livestock, armed bandits and kidnappers' hideout in Anchau forest, Kubau Local Government Area, Kaduna State same day".

"During the operation, 3 kidnappers, Umaru Buje, Sanusi Shuaibu and Samaila Ibrahim were arrested by the troops.

"The arrested persons are currently being interrogated", Colonel Usman said.

In the past one year, kidnapping and cattle rustling have become another major security threat, aside Boko Haram insurgency which the Nigeria Army has been tackling.

Nearly a hundred kidnappers and cattle rustlers were either killed in shootouts or arrested by soldiers. And over a thousand cows rustled from herdsmen were recovered.

Fulani herdsmen, who are recently being accused of attacking communities using assault rifles have complained that some of them resort to using guns like AK47  to defend themselves because cattle rustlers use similar weapons to attack them when they come to take away their livestock.

A POEM IN HONOUR OF CHIBOK GIRLS

POEM
Father, Accept My Child
(Agony of Chibok Girl)

I was a virgin
The last time I left home
You can't even imagine
Since the day I was born
That I would some day vanish
For two years without home.

I was a student
The last paper was physics
I told you, I wont be late
Since my days in school  is finished
But two years I failed
To return home as promised.

I was a daughter
Like the one you cherished
I called you my father
Since you gave me the reason
To love you forever

I was a Christian
The last time I left you
You urged me to sustain
My whole life with His book
But for two years I was made
A convert by the gun

In Days of horror
Weeks of Pain
And months of torture
I tarry with terror
Who stole my pride

Everyday I cringed
In fear of blood
That flows around my feet
On a crimson floor

No place to hide
When the bullets fly
Shooting from the ground, falling from sky
In this I labored and bore a child

I know you missed me
My heart tells me that
Even though you left me
To suffer just like that

I know your wishes
The last time you said so
To grow up a lady
In your household
Get husband to marry.

I know today you happy
Your daughter is brought back
Even though you hide it
A grandson you don't need
Cos you fear he brings harm
His father was a bad seed.

Father, I share your fears
But everyone musn't know
So I swallow my tears
Even before they are formed.
For a child is here
Whom we're not prepared for.

For months he calls me mother
Now am home I call you father
He looks my face with wonder
Then he smiles and call you grandpa

His looks, just like father's 
But his limbs reminds me a monster
That puts in me a gangster
But I pray he turns out like father
So kind and nice like tender

Poor child;
I look down at him with anger
He looks back at me with laughter
He is my blood and water
It's not his fault to come by

The pain in me may last forever
And my love for him is forever.
Please accept my child, dear father.

- By Abdulkareem Haruna  (C) 2016

Troops arrest 3 old men who work as Boko Haram shepherds

Troops arrest 3 old men who work as Boko Haram sherpherds

Abdulkareem Haruna

Three old men in their 60s, of which two among them are blood brothers and one on the wanted list of the Nigeria Army, have been arrested in a community in Yobe state where they confessed to be working as ranchers for Boko Haram terrorists. 

The three deadly shepherds were nabbed while on their way to sell off some animals on behalf of their Boko Haram masters to enable them raise money to buy foodstuff and other consumables ahead  the coming Sallah celebration. 

One of the men, Muhammed Bulama was identified as 'suspect number 105' on the photo album of most wanted Boko Haram kingpins as published by the Nigeria Army directorate of public relations. 

Mr Bulama, his elder brother, Ardo Abba Muhammed and one Muhammadu Kaigama all confessed to the Nigeria soldiers that their job schedule for the Boko Haram was keeping and taking care of all cows, sheep and horses stolen or seized from innocent individuals. 

Muhammed Bulama, according to a statement issued by the acting director army public relations, Colonel Sani Kukasheka Usman, had identified his own photograph on Wanted List and confirmed being an active Boko Haram member, 

Colonel Usman's statement reads: 

"The Boko Haram suspect on the wanted list number 105, Muhammed Bulama, has been arrested by troops on Tuesday 6th July 2016 in Yobe State.  

"Bulama was arrested along side with 2 other suspected Boko Haram terrorists; Ardo Abba Muhammed (elder brother to Bulama as claimed) and Muhammadu Kaigama, in Azare community, Gujba Local Government Area of Yobe State, with the help of the local vigilantes in the town. 

"They were arrested riding on horseback and bicycle shepherding some sheep towards market.

"During preliminary investigation, the suspected terrorist  personally confirmed his photograph on the wanted list and further revealed that he specialized on rearing animals for the terrorist group. 

"He further confessed that they came to the village to sell the animals as they had ran out of cash in their hideout and would also get some food items back to for the upcoming Sallah festivity". 

Army chief, Buratai bags Kwame Nkuruma Leadership award

Army chief, Buratai bags Kwame Nkuruma Leadership award
Abdulkareem Haruna

The Chief Army Staff, Lieutenant General Tukur Buratai, has been awarded the prestigious Kwame Nkuruma Leadership award by All Africa Students Union (AASU) in their appreciation of his leadership commitment and fight against terrorism in Nigeria.

A delegation of AASU Executive Committee, led by the union's Secretary General, Ambassador Akinyele Olasumbo, presented the award to General Buratai at the army headquarters, Abuja on Friday.

The delegation, according to a statement issued by the acting director army public relations, Colonel Sani Kukasheka Usman, appreciated that "the Nigerian Army troops are doing well in the North East, and acknowledged the support of President Muhammadu Buhari, Nigerians as well as international organizations in the fight against the insurgency".

Adding that "terrorism is a global problem that must be tackled to enable development thrive in the continent. He promised to accomplish the task of President Muhammadu Buhari, to ensure normalcy returns to the North East"

Mr. Akinyele explained that the union which had representatives from Nigeria, Cameroon, Cote D'Ivoire and Ghana further explained that the award would also spur other African leaders to ensure peace and stability of the African continent.

The pan African students union said the award was to enable them join other well meaning individuals and organizations to appreciate the leadership style, patriotism  and commitment of the COAS which brought about peace and security in Nigeria. They further stated that the Award was to also  encourage him to do more to clear out the remnants of the Boko Haram terrorists in the North East.

"In his acceptance remarks, the Chief of Army staff said he dedicated the award to all his officers and men who contributed in the successes recorded in the ongoing fight against Boko Haram.

"General Buratai, thanked the Union for the award and said he was very elated and deeply humbled to be associated with the name and virtues  of the highly revered African leader, the late Doctor Kwameh Nkurmah Prime Minister of Ghana as manifested in the Award  and dedicated it to all the Officers and Soldiers of the Nigerian Army for their selflessness and commitment to duties that brought about this and may other accolades"

"The COAS urged all African youths to focus on their studies, adding that it is the basis for the overall socio-economic development of the African continent.

"He also urged them to always respect elders, constituted authorities  and contribute positively in order to change Africa for the better", said Colonel Usman'.

You must update your knowledge, Buratai tells soldiers

You must update your knowledge, Buratai tells soldiers
Premium Times (August 20, 2016)

The Chief of Army Staff, Tukur Buratai, has urged officers and men of the Nigerian Army to ensure they update themselves in terms of knowledge apart from military basic training.

Mr. Buratai, a lieutenant general, spoke with newsmen at Kachia, Kaduna State after he fired some shots in a mock war as one of the concluding exercises for graduating cadets.

"They must be up to date, not necessarily getting the basic military training only, they must be up to date in terms of current affairs and in terms of global trend," he said.
"They must be current in Information Communication Technology and I am sure they will go places.''

He said the exercise otherwise known as "Battle Inoculation,'' was good for the cadets as it would make them have war experience, especially what troops were facing in the North-East.

On his participation in the mock war, Mr. Buratai described it as great and recalled that he engaged in such exercise more than 33 years ago, while graduating from the Nigeria Defence Academy.

He said, "The standard is still being maintained and I give kudos to the commandant, instructors and administrators of the NDA.
"I am happy that the standard is still being maintained and we will continue to improve on that.''

Earlier, when he addressed the 60 cadets of the 63rd Regular Course of the NDA, the COAS commended them for showing discipline required of soldiers in war situation.

"This is the culmination of the totality of your experiences that you have gained from the various military books," Mr. Buratai said.
"What you have put into practice here today is fundamental to winning battles. You are as good as battle tested."

In a welcome address, the Director of Army Training, Okwudili Azinta, a brigadier general, said the exercise was for cadets of the Army in their final year at the NDA.

According to him, "It is designed to test the cadets understanding of operational, administrative and logistical concepts which they have been taught throughout their stay in the academy.

"It will also enable the commandant to access their suitability for commission into the Nigerian Army."

Mr. Azinta said at inception, the cadets were 84, consisting of 76 males and eight females.
"However, out of this number, five cadets were at various times sent to military academies in U.S, UK and Brazil to complete their training.
"Currently, they are 60; 24 have either been relegated or withdrawn.''

He also said all the eight female pioneer cadets admitted to the academy were concluding their course.

Troops kill 16 insurgents in Borno village Abdulkareem Haruna

Troops kill 16 insurgents in Borno village
Abdulkareem Haruna

Nigerian soldiers have on Sunday succeeded in killing 16 Boko Haram insurgents after they had repelled a late Sunday evening attack on troops location in Kangarwa village of northern Borno state, officials said.

The deadly attack which was attended with heavy gun shootings from both sides of the belligerent forces had left 11 soldiers and a ranked commander badly wounded.

Spokesman of the Nigeria Army, Colonel Sani Kukasheka Usman, said a substantial cache of arms was recovered from the dislodged insurgents.

Colonel Usman's statement reads:

"Troops of Operation LAFIYA DOLE at harbour in Kangarwa yesterday successfully repelled suspected remnants of  Boko Haram terrorists attack.

"The attack was launched by the suspected terrorists at about 5:30pm on Sunday 14th August 2016.

"The alert troops rose to the occasion and dealt a decisive blow on the insurgents, by  killing 16 of them and recovering arms and ammunitions from them.

"Weapons recovered from the insurgents include 1 Rocket Propelled Grenade 7 tube, 1 Rocket Propelled Grenade bomb, 11 AK-47 Rifle, a 60mm Mortar tube, a dozen of 60mm Mortar bombs, a 36 Hand Grenade, 5  AK-47 rifle magazines, 1 Gionee Handset and 1 Bandolier.

"Unfortunately, an officer and 11 soldiers were  wounded in action during the encounter. We are glad to state they have all been treated at the unit's medical facility and are all in stable condition.

"The troops have continued to intensify vigilance and high level of alertness through patrols and reconnaissance.

"It is in line with that the troops went on fighting fighting patrol to Dogon Chikun this morning, recovered one vehicle and rescued 5  people from the Boko Haram terrorists".

Soldiers gun down 1 cattle rustler, arrest 2 in Katsina

Soldiers gun down 1 cattle rustler, arrest 2 in Katsina

Abdulkareem Haruna

Troops of the Nigeria Army under 35 Brigade had in a joint operation with the personnel of the Nigeria Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) in Katsina state carried out a raid of armed bandits and cattle rustlers den where one of the suspected criminals was killed in a shoot out. 

The troops who carried out two separate operation on Friday also arrested two of the notorious cattle rustlers. 

Acting Director Army Public Relations, Sani Usman Kukasheka, a Colonel, said the troops had retrieved 49 cows and 25 sheep from the suspected bandits who were found with cache of arms now in the custody of the troops. 

His statement reads:

"Troops of 35 Battalion, 1 Brigade Nigerian Army in a joint patrol with elements of Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Katsina State, under the auspices of Operation SHARAN DAJI, on Friday 12th August 2016, carried out joint operations along Tsambe-Fafare road, Jibia Local Government Area of Katsina State", he said.

"The operation was predicated on information received by well meaning citizens that 3 gunmen were sighted on motorcycles. The team swung into action and pursued the suspected armed bandits towards Dumburu forest in Zamfara State.

"During an encounter, the team killed one of the suspected cattle rustlers and armed bandits, while the other two escaped with gun shot wounds. They however recovered an AK-47 rifle with registration number 1985PS6288, additional AK-47 rifle magazine and 3 rounds of 7.62mm (Special) ammunition.

"Another combined team also carried out special raids operations along Faskari-Sheme-Mairuwa road, Katsina State. It was in that process that they arrested a notorious cattle rustler and armed bandit, Abubakar Mohammed (AKA Gora) along side his boys and accomplices; Anas Gora and Bello Sani. The team recovered 49 cattle and 25 sheep from them.

"The suspects were handed over to the police while the recovered animals have been handed over to Faskari Local Government Area Council Secretary for handing over to the rightful owners".

---
Abdulkareem Haruna

Assistant Edito/ Head Northeast Zone

PREMIUM TIMES 

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‘Nigerian troops thwart Boko Haram attempted attack on Borno village’

'Nigerian troops thwart Boko Haram attempted attack on Borno village'
By Blogger

May 5, 2016

The Nigerian Army on Monday announced that its troops blocked an attempt by the extremist Boko Haram sect to attack a village in the North Eastern state of Borno.
The spokesperson for the Army, Sani Usman, said in a statement sent to PREMIUM TIMES, "Today, Monday 1st August 2016, at about 8.00pm, troops of Operation LAFIYA DOLE accompanied by Civilian JTF successfully thwarted an attempt by Boko Haram terrorists on Yauri Community at the outskirts of Maiduguri city, Borno State.
"In the encounter, the troops killed five of the attackers and recovered 2 AK-47 rifles, 1 General Purpose Machine Gun (GPMG), one 60mm Mortar Tube, 1 Fabrique Nationale (FN) rifle, 2 Dane Guns, 2 AK-47 rifle magazines, 2 FN rifle magazines, 131 rounds of 7.62mm (NATO) ammunition, 31 rounds of 7.62mm (Special) ammunitions, a 60mm Bomb and the sum of N31,275.00 from the terrorists.
"We are glad to inform the public that the general area is calm, while troops have deployed to maintain security in the village and environs."

Soldiers Disarm Suicide Bomber, Free 249 Boko Haram Suspects

Soldiers Disarm Suicide Bomber, Free 249 Boko Haram Suspects

By Abdulkareem Haruna

A suspected suicide Bomber who was primed to carry out an attack on innocent citizens using an explosive device concealed in an electronic stabilizer compartment was disarmed by vigilant troops in a suburb of Maiduguri, the Borno state capital.

The suspect, who gave his name as Yusuf Tasiu, had confessed that he was on a mission at the instance of his other members to carry out an attack on the members of the community where he was intercepted.

This cheery prevention of what could have turned out to be another disaster occurred at a time when many families within and around the state were rejoicing over the recent release of their relatives who were arrested and detained by the Nigerian military as suspected Boko Haram insurgents.

Army Spokesman, Colonel Sani Kukasheka Usman, said in a statement  that "troops of 101 Battalion, 7 Division Garrison on foot patrol along with some elements of Civilian JTF, intercepted a suspected male suicide bomber at Sabon Gari Jidari".

"The suspect carrying primed Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs) concealed in a blue stabilizer casing gave his name as Yusuf Tasiu.

He was dispossessed of the explosives while the Nigeria Police Explosive Ordnance Devices expert safely detonated it. The suicide bomber is currently being interrogated", he said.

Colonel Usman, an acting Director Army Public Relations, added that, in a similar occurrence, some Vigilante group operating at Njidari village, SouthEast of Damboa, had conducted clearance operations against suspected Boko Haram terrorists hideout close to Ngwalimeri village, east of Bale in Borno State.

"The vigilante destroyed the camp and recovered 1 AK-47 rifle with registration number 565203224 with locally fabricated 5 rounds of 7.62mm (Special) ammunitions and a pair of military uniform. The leader of the vigilante handed over same to the Headquarters of 25 Task Force Brigade in Damboa", he said.

Yesterday, the Army headquarters had announced that a total of 249 persons have been cleared of being suspected Boko Haram members and freed to reunite with their families, after an approval by the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Tukur Buratai.

The cleared suspects were on Sunday handed over to the Borno state government by the acting General Officer Commanding 7 Division Nigeria Army, Brigadier General Victor Ezugwu.

According to Colonel Usman, "those cleared and released include 169 males, 46 women and 34 children".

"Further breakdown shows that 203 of them were from 18 Local Government Areas of Borno State, while 44 were from other States as follows; Adamawa 2, Jigawa 2, Lagos 1, Oyo 1 and Yobe 38. However, 2 of them were from the Republic of Cameroon.

He said two of the foreigners were however handed over to the Borno State Command of the Nigerian Immigration Service for onward delivery to the Cameroonian authorities.

The statement said the Borno state Commissioner for Local Government, Alhaji Usman Zanna, advised the released detainees "to remain law abiding and go about their lawful businesses. He also commended the effort of the military in the fight against terrorism and insurgency and respect for human rights as manifested in the painstaking efforts that led to their clearance and subsequent release.

Each of the cleared Boko Haram suspects was given a token of N3,000 each for transport back to their homes after they must have undertaken some documentation with the government officials.

SAHARA REPORTERS AND ALBINAWI: A SMEAR CAMPAIGN TAKEN TOO FAR.

SAHARA REPORTERS AND ALBINAWI: A SMEAR CAMPAIGN TAKEN TOO FAR. 

By Aniefiok Jacob
The agents of provocation, harassment and sponsors of inertia in Nigeria are at it again. 

The COAS, Lieutenant General Tukur Yusuf Buratai

This time, they want to hood wink undiscerning Nigerians and sell the garbage that the in spite of the huge success of the Nigerian Army under the selfless Chief of Army Staff Lt. Gen. Tukur Buratai is a fluke, else, in all honesty how can the man achieve such gargantuan and incisive victory over the insurgency menace, if he was not upright.

What is clear and vivid from the contraption from one Harun Elbinawi, is that the piece was packaged to sooth the ego of our enemies of progress, who detest any good coming Nigerian’s way. But they are dead wrong, as Nigerians now can no longer be fooled by such antics. These people always seek for means of destroying our efforts to build a united, egalitarian and progressive nation, rather they always cook up fables, half-truths and hiatus to thwart meaningful programmes in Nigeria. 

The veil of the contraption would fall apart when one critically views the caption of the write–up by insinuating a linkage of two issues, totally at variance. This portends that same source is bankrolling the hatchet job. 

In the craze to paint Lt Gen. Buratai in the worst of colours, they tagged him (with all manner of derogatory names) a “Butcher” and a “Boko Haram facilitator” while even the crassly-informed, is aware that Lt. Gen. Tukur Buratai devoted the total means at his disposal to wage the anti-insurgency war to record the successes on ground. 

He succeeded where many have failed us. He has lived up to expectation and within 1 year, a similitude of peace is gradually coming to the affected zone. The piece tacitly imports that for want (lack) of anything worthwhile to hang on the unblemished officer, (and Spartan General), they want to use religious sentiment to whip up emotions and attract sympathy to their cause by blackmailing the Federal Government into removing their albatross.

What is shocking and unimaginable, is how some Nigerians still think they can use bogey schemes to cause chaos in the fabric of our public (national)  life, just to serve their nefarious interests and with scant regard to the damage such could inflict on the perception of our people and Government by foreigners.

It is totally unpatriotic and absurd to go to any length, unwittingly even to destroy what our forefathers fought so hard to leave as a legacy for us, simply because certain events did not happen as they had anticipated and calculated. But that is destiny for you.

The written-up   (write-up) was tardy and unpolished, because a lot of conflict of thoughts in their minds and mix up, manifested therein and rendered the argument incoherent and muddled and tardy while plotting the conspiracy.

The point we want to make here, is that any attack on Lt. Gen Tukur Buratai, citing what happened in Zaria that has been a subject of investigation and probe or his personal estate which he fully disclosed to the authorities and found to be within his legitimate earnings, can only but be a guise to undermine the President Buhari Administration.

The source of this tirade is not too hard to pinpoint. The jumbled flow of the contraption, wobbling from inciting baseless accusations on account of how the Nigerian Army thwarted a planned affront to rubbish its bravado, to playing the role of a supposedly whistle-blower, but fabricating muck transactions and distorting facts as if the readers are all uninformed is to say the least, the handiwork of a demented group, whose grudge is incurable, as their thirst for blood letting is unquenchable. 

The present Government no doubt must have incurred the wrath of many, who had been feeding fat on the misuse of public funds to pursue self-serving goals and interests detrimental to our nation cum collective wellbeing. So, we are not in any way bemused, only alarmed at the extent of their self delusion.

The account of how the COAS purportedly used Army funds to purchase properties in Dubai or acquire same in Nigeria did not add up, simply because it is not true. How can any sane person imagine that General  Buratai as commander of the Multi-National Joint Task Force on insurgency, could short-change in procurement of equipment like vehicles and motorcycles as claimed, whereas such matters are done strictly in accordance with laid down procedures of the International Agencies mandated by the funding countries.

To vividly depict their dishonesty and being economical with the truth, the notorious Sahara Reporters alleged that the COAS and his two wives paid about $419,000 for a property in Dubai in 2013, then shamelessly claimed sources in the Army said the money involved came from the contract awarded for the supply of vehicles and motorcycles, these are mere conjectures, as the COAS was never a Director of Procurement at the Army Headquarters. In fact it was to his credit that the Army now has one.  Contrary to the insinuation, he was the one that created the Procurement for the Nigerian Army on assumption of duty as Chief of Army Staff last year as part of the far-reaching re-organization that he initiated on assumption of office in July 2015.

It is therefore hollow, inane and sheer mischief which is favourite pastime of a set of people who detest  Nigeria’s progress with passion. They are the same funding all sorts of anti-people ploys in Nigeria, using diverse means of disguise but whose main objectives is to fan embers of hatred, stoke inter-ethnic conflicts, create intra-community discord and chiefly pursue inordinate faith-based agenda all in a bid to either have their way of muzzling Government or instigate a disintegration of our beloved father-land. May Allah forbid. 

On his appointment on July 13th last year, there was spontaneous joyous celebration in all Army formations, because all and sundry attested that President Muhammadu Buhari indeed made a wise choice of putting an impeccable and astute officer to direct the affairs of the Nigerian Army at a very critical time like then.

Soldiers Wining the War in Northeast Under The Command
Lieutenant General Buratai

True to their attestation, Nigerians from all the nooks and crannies of our great country, have expressed confidence in him and the manner he has transformed our Army into a potent strike force, well motivated and able to hold it’s own in the quest of protecting our territorial integrity. He has restored respect and dignity to the soldiering which hitherto was not there.

We feel that by now any Nigerian worthy of that appellation, should desist from supporting those whose agenda is to do us in. The country can only develop, survive and flourish if as citizens we put the genuine interests of the country first and above parochial interests.

It is utopian to expect elements from Mars to come and rule us, or become subservient to other nations as Albinawi and his co-travellers want us to. We cannot make head-way in our affairs if we continue to disparage even individuals who have demonstrated the rare and uncommon knack to sort out our problems, simply because incomprehensible reason. It is absolute trash to question the position of the Nigerian Army over the baseless allegations.

 Gen. Buratai has the right to own property anywhere, so long as the sources of such investment are found to be legitimate. It is sheer tomfoolery and totally ridiculous to try computing the earnings of an officer commissioned some 33 years ago, as if such money must remain static, where the person can only deplete such but not use same to add value as being insinuated.

The picture is clear; these agents of retrogression have been having it rosy in Nigeria. Due to a twist of fate, they now found themselves holding the short end of the stick and are bent on subverting this Government by all means.

What is mind boggling is how do they expect Nigerians to be so easily deceived again, after passing through hell in the hands of those saddled with leadership positions but are lily-hearted and dim-witted hence plunged us into the misfortune of the recent past.

If there is any iota of truth in the allegations or any inclination on the part of Lt. Gen. Buratai to self-help in the manner of discharging his responsibilities, he could not have been absolved of having a hand in the infamous Dasuki-Arms deal scam, but the fact remains that all those holding sway then, were implicated in that scam, which invariably translates to the COAS not being in the thick of things to the extent of cornering such bogus juicy contracts as alleged.

Nigeria has suffered enough in the hands of its detractors, who feel the country should not come out of the woods. So the game plan is to use whatever means to put a spanner in the works, and this nefarious ploy is to railroad or force President Buhari to ditch the COAS in order to halt the momentum being gained in quelling the insurgency menace on the one part, and also portray him as a weak leader who can stab his staunch lieutenants in back after using them to achieve set objectives.

Little did they reckon with the vibrancy of the Presidency with a mind set to focus on solving the teething problems of the country and refusing to be swayed by the subterfuge, innuendoes and charade of the dislocated bunch, who mean evil to the nation and would stop at nothing to achieve their selfish retrogressive agenda.

In the light of the foregoing, we wish to use this medium to implore Nigerians to discountenance such blatant lies from self-serving elements like Harun Elbinawi and his ilk, whose pay masters are now left in the lurch, after wrecking our economy, leaving the ordinary Nigerians in the throes of extinction and yet abhor the current measures being taken by the Buhari Administration to put it back on track. 

The objective of the onslaught is beyond Lt. Gen. Tukur Buratai, rather the COAS is being witch hunted for daring the hitherto sacred cows and spoiling their fun, hence must be scarified in the quest to ultimately undermine the Buhari Administration’s hold Plans to put the country on a part of irreversible development. 

We therefore see this senseless ploy as a potent affront on our psyche, where our detractors would want to take the wind out of our sail but tacitly using the convert mechanism deftly. Nigerians must as a people stoutly resist such elements where ever they should rear their heads.

We should be extra alert as they would devise diverse ways to pursue their inglorious schemes, but we should not be disillusioned, taking comfort in the fact that posterity would always be on the side of the just.Lt. Gen. Tukur Buratai has served this country diligently and brought a sigh of relief to millions of Nigerian families. The least he deserves is a pat on the back for a job well done, not being maligned and blackmailed for nothing to serve selfish interest of a despicable lot.

The COAS is a professional to the core, an astute officer who has immensely taken welfare of his soldiers to an all time high, thus raising their morale to accomplish so much, within his brief stint. While we are not in a position to hold brief for Gen. Buratai, as discerning analysts of Nigeria’s public affairs, it would amount to being foolhardy to keep mute, while this doyen of the military is being unjustly accused for daring to serve our common interest to the best of his ability, hence this rejoinder to the likes of Harun Elbinawi. 

- Jacob is with the Concern Nigerian Youth.