Nigerian army ‘fully in charge of all reclaimed communities’

A team of international observers made up of civil society organaisations and social media influencers have lauded the Nigerian Army for making the north-east impenetrable for Boko Haram insurgents to seize.

They also called on residents of the north-east to interrogate news content before circulating in order not to empower the insurgents.

Daniel Furnard, team leader, said this at a press briefing held recently in Lagos.

“It was observed that the fake news emanating from the theatre of operation in North East gives the Boko Haram Terrorist a psychological boost and the audacity to make attempts at regrouping and launching attacks in communities,” he said.

“It could also send the wrong message to the international community about the efforts of the Nigerian government in confronting the Boko Haram threats to our sovereignty as a nation.

“It is advised that citizens must, therefore, interrogate news content before circulating some as the terrorists thrive on the gullibility of reasonable persons who do not cross-check their facts to reach out to the rest of the world with their falsehood.

“As a group conversant with the activities of the Nigeria Army in North East Nigeria, it should be stated that if this trend is not arrested, it could affect humanitarian works in the area.

“It was also observed that the troops are in high spirit and well-equipped with arms and ammunition. The fighting forces also stated that the Chief of Army Staff is a regular guest in the theatre of operations.

“The Nigeria Army deserves special commendation as well as other sister security agencies. The presence of the Army is well felt everywhere and recent political activities across the country are clear indications that Boko Haram has lost control of the fight which they were practically in charge sometimes in 2015.”

The leader admonished the government and international organisations to support the communities and restore normalcy.

“The Team observed that more people are still returning to these communities and it is expedient for the government to continue to provide essential amenities by rebuilding schools and hospitals,” he said.

“It is also recommended both local and international humanitarian organizations should come to the aid of these communities as it continues the rebuilding process, and even a return to their sources of livelihood to make life meaningful for them and for them to be able to carry-on with farming activities.”