‘Laughable blabbing’ — DHQ responds to Asari Dokubo’s threat to shoot down military aircraft

The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has responded to a viral video involving Asari Dokubo, a former Niger Delta militant leader.

In the video, Dokubo claimed he could bring down a military aircraft that was allegedly surveilling his home during the recent LGA elections in Rivers state.

Dokubo said the aircraft was attempting to intimidate him because of his support for the election process.

“The federal government knows I have the capacity to bring down any aircraft,” he said.

In response, Edward Buba, director of defence media operations, dismissed Dokubo’s claims as “laughable”.

He added that Dokubo was merely “blabbing” and did not have the power to challenge the military or shoot down its aircraft.

Buba explained that various security agencies use aircraft and helicopters for national security purposes.

He assured that the military operates within professional standards and respects democratic principles.

He added that addressing such claims falls under the responsibility of the “appropriate authorities”.

Buba also responded to reports of 13 former Boko Haram fighters escaping from a rehabilitation centre with government rifles in Borno state.

He said the military is not in charge of the deradicalisation, rehabilitation, and reintegration (DDR) programme, adding that measures are being taken to ensure the programme’s effectiveness.

Buba also noted that over 300 terrorist leaders have been eliminated in military operations across the north-west in the past three months.

He added that the military has adjusted its strategies in the region to replicate the successes achieved in the north-east, with some “wanted terrorist leaders” expressing interest in surrendering through the new Operation Fasan Yamma.