Satellite images expose how Nigerian Army attempted to cover up Shi’ites massacre — Amnesty International

Officials of the Nigerian Army made concerted efforts to cover up the mass slaughter of over 350 Nigerian citizens, including women and children, between December 12-14, 2015, in Zaria, Amnesty International has said.

SHITES MUSLIMS KILLED

In a newly-released report about the killing, which involved members of the Islamic Movement of Nigeria, IMN, Amnesty International said it was able to uncover evidence of a possible mass grave in Zaria neighbourhood of Mando with the aid of satellite imaging.

The report, titled: “Unearthing the truth: Unlawful killings and mass cover-up in Zaria”, is based on interviews with 92 people, including victims, witnesses from the Shi’ite and other communities, relatives of victims, residents of the areas where the incidents took place, lawyers and medical personnel and contains shocking eyewitness testimony of large-scale unlawful killings by the Nigerian military and exposes a crude attempt by the authorities to destroy and conceal evidence.

“The true horror of what happened over those two days in Zaria is only now coming to light. Bodies were left littered in the streets and piled outside the mortuary. Some of the injured were burned alive,” said Netsanet Belay, Amnesty International’s Research and Advocacy Director for Africa.

“Our research, based on witness testimonies and analysis of satellite images, has located one possible mass grave. It is time now for the military to come clean and admit where it secretly buried hundreds of bodies.”

The massacre of Shi’ites and continued detention of their leader, Ibrahim El-Zakzaky, have earned the Nigerian government widespread international condemnation, including a probe by the International Criminal Court.

In February, the Islamic Human Rights Commission, IHRC, a United Kingdom-based Muslim advocacy organisation, has dragged President Muhammadu Buhari, the Kaduna State governor, Nasir El-Rufai, the chief of army staff, Tukur Buratai, to the International Criminal Court (ICC) over the massacre.

The organisation also asked the ICC to investigate the emir of Kano, Muhammadu Sanusi II, and the emir of Zaria, Shehu Idris, for human rights violation and crimes against humanity.

Other army officers and persons the IHRC asked the ICC to probe for their roles in the massacre are: spokesperson of the Nigerian Army, Sani Usman, General Officer Commanding (GOC) of the Nigerian Army, Kaduna, Adeniyi Oyebade, the Commander Nigerian Depot, Chief of Defence Staff, Abayomi Olonisakin, Director Military Intelligence, Chief of Defence intelligence – AVM Riku Morgan, AK Ibrahim – Commander 1 Division Garrison, Nigerian Army, Kaduna and Col. F.M Babayo.

The rest are Capt Ben, Adjutant Depot, Nigerian Army; Adeniyi Oyebade, General Officer Commanding, 1 Division Garrison Kaduna; Umar Labdo; Sambo Rigachukun; Bala Lau; Yahaya Jingir and; Kabir Gombe.

In a detailed report, the IHRC argued that attacks of the army on members of IMN between December 12 and 14 in Zaria qualify as crime against humanity and therefore called on the ICC to initiate an investigation into the incident.

In April, the ICC announced the commencement of detailed investigation into the killings.

According to Amnesty International’s findings, more than 350 people are believed to have been unlawfully killed by the military between 12 and 14 December, following a confrontation between members of IMN and soldiers in Zaria, Kaduna State.

IMN supporters – some armed with batons, knives, and machetes – had refused to clear the road near their headquarters, the Hussainiyya, for a military convoy to pass. The army has claimed that IMN supporters attacked the convoy in an attempt to assassinate the Chief of Army Staff. IMN members deny this.

Some people were killed as a result of the indiscriminate fire while others appeared to have been deliberately targeted, Mr. Belay said.

The report highlighted the agony of relatives of the victims of the massacre, which the federal government has continued to deny.

Zainab, a 16-year-old schoolgirl, was quoted by Amnesty International: “We were in our school uniforms. My friend Nusaiba Abdullahi was shot in her forehead. We took her to a house where they treated the injured but, before reaching the house, she already died.

The cover-up

Amnesty International said after the incident, the military sealed off the areas around El-Zakzaky’s compound, the Hussainiyya and other locations. Bodies were taken away, sites were razed to the ground, the rubble removed, bloodstains washed off, and bullets and spent cartridge removed from the streets.

Witnesses saw piles of bodies outside the morgue of Ahmadu Bello University Teaching Hospital in Zaria. A senior medical source told Amnesty International that the military sealed off the area around the morgue for two days. During that time he saw army vehicles “coming and going”.

A witness described to Amnesty International what he saw outside the hospital mortuary on the evening of 14 December: “It was dark and from far I could only see a big mound but when I got closer I saw it was a huge pile of corpses on top of each other. I have never seen so many dead bodies. I got very scared and run away. It was a terrible sight and I can’t get it out of my mind.”

Another witness told the organisation how he had seen diggers excavating holes at the site of the suspected mass grave: “There were five or six large trucks and several smaller military vehicles and they spent hours digging and unloading the trucks’ cargo into the hole they dug and then covered it again with the earth they had dug out. They were there from about 1 or 2 am until about 5 am. I don’t know what they buried. It looked like bodies, but I could not get near.”

Satellite images expose how Nigerian Army attempted to cover up Shi’ites massacre — Amnesty International

Public Warning: Boko Haram new tactics - Nigerian Military

The Nigerian military has warned the public of a new tactic in use by the extremist Boko Haram sect to move Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs) around in order to unleash deadly attacks on the public.

Abubakar Shekau

A statement by the acting director, defence information, Rabe Abubakar, said the military found that members of the terrorist group now disguise as legitimate fruit and vegetable sellers to smuggle IEDs within groceries to crowded areas.

Mr Abubakar advised the public to be on the alert of this tactics by the terrorists and not to hesitate in reporting any suspicious persons to security agencies.

The Nigerian government insists Boko Haram has been effectively defeated and that the group is unable to hold territories and stage military style attacks like it used to do.

The sect has, however, continued to carried out intermittent suicide bombings mostly in crowded area. The military describes these places as soft targets.

Read Mr. Abubakar’s statement below:

TERRORISTS NOW HIDE IEDS AMONG VEGETABLES

“In continuation with the sensitization of our citizens on the devilish strategy of the terrorists, the Nigerian Military authorities have discovered that the Boko Haram terrorists are determined to continue letting off bombs and have resorted to masquerading as fruits and vegetable vendors wheeling Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs) as groceries into crowded areas.

“The terrorists now hide IEDs under vegetable wares in carts and wheelbarrows and move to crowded places where they detonate them for maximum casualties. The recent terrorists attack in the North East is a case in point.

“Having been effectively dislodged and decimated the BH terror group has begun some systematic isolated attacks mainly on soft targets in their desperation to remain relevant.

“The Defence Headquarters hereby advises the general public to constantly be alert to this latest terrorist tactics and to report promptly any suspicious persons or objects to the nearest security agency.

“While commending the general public and the media for their continuous support so far, all citizens are once again reminded that security is everybody’s concern therefore, they should join hands with the security agencies to eliminate the remnant of the terrorists.”

Public Warning: Boko Haram new tactics - Nigerian Military

Shi’ites/soldiers clash: We’ve no apology – Army

The General Officer Commanding, (GOC) 1 Mechanized Division of the Nigerian Army, Major General Adeniyi Oyebade has said that, the Nigerian Army has no apology for its recent encounter with members of the Islamic Movement in Nigeria, popularly known as the Shi’ite sect.

The GOC said that, the Army cannot fold its arms and watch any group or sect threaten the peace and stability of the country.

Addressing newsmen at the headquarters of 1 Division in Kaduna on Wednesday, the GOC said, the Army has no issue with the Shi’ites, saying “they are like any other sect in the land, but as long as they obey the law of the land no problem, but if any group chooses to challenge the authority of the land, it means they do not value the sanctity of life and the constitution of Nigeria.”

The GOC added that the military has no issue with the Islamic sect, pointing out that even some military personnel are Shiites by religious calling, but they respected and obeyed constituted authority, and the military has no issue with them.

According to him, “Army has paid heavily with the blood of its officers and men to protect this country, and so we have no apology any group, either Shiites Islamic sect, Christian sect, even pagan sect that is threatening the peace of the country.

“We don’t have any issue with the Shiites or any sect at all in the land as long as they obey the law of the land. But if any group tends to challenge the constituted authority of the land, it means that such group does not respect the constitution of the land.

“Even in the military, we have Shiites members, but there is no issue with them because they are law abiding citizens.

“But we have issues with those who creates a State within a State, and our rules of engagement are very clear, that is, when there is threat to a constituted authority, it must be arrested before it goes full blown.

“We know the business of violence but we apply it professionally if the peace of the land is being threatened, so we are appealing to Nigerians who are bent on causing violence stay off,” he said.

The GOC however insisted that the Army remains the guidance of Nigerian democracy, but stated that, an attempt on the Chief of the nation’s Army is akin to an attempt on a sitting president.

Giving an overview of the activities of the division in 2015, the GOC said, “We want to re assure the members of the North West zone that the army will do everything possible as mandated by the constitution of Nigeria to protect our people and to enable the people go about their activities without molestation.”

Shi’ites/soldiers clash: We’ve no apology – Army

Our El-Zakzaky story, by the Army

In this interview, the spokesperson for the Nigeria Army, Colonel Sani Usman, explains the circumstances that led to the bloody confrontation between members of the Islamic Movement in Nigeria, IMN, led by Sheik Ibrahim El-Zakzaky, and the Nigeria Army, penultimate Saturday. Not the first of its kind, but the activities of the IMN and the handling of the matter by the army personnel have, this time, generated a lot of attention. Excerpts:

What is the update on the leader of the Shiite sect, El-Zakzaky, especially his whereabouts?

I can tell you that, contrary to the rumour that is going on, he is alive.

What exactly happened that Saturday that led to the clash and bloodbath?

One thing I want you to understand is that there  wasn’t any procession that day. What happened  was that quite a number of important activities were going on in the country on that day including the Chief of the Army Staff Annual Conference, in Dutse, Jigawa State.   The Emir of Dutse was also celebrating his 20th anniversary on the throne; so it became incumbent on the Chief of the Army Staff to wait behind and be part of the programme.   That same day, we were having the Passing Out Parade of the 73 Regular Recruits Intake in Zaria and then there was the graduation ceremony of the Kaduna State University.

Now, part of the tradition had been that whenever a very important dignitary is in Zaria, which is the headquarters of ZauZau Emirate, it is imperative for such a guest to pay a courtesy call on the Emir; so we were on our way from Dutse to Zaria, first and foremost to pay the courtesy call on the Emir of ZauZau, who had to cut short his   engagements in Kaduna where he had attended the convocation ceremony to be with us.

So when did the crisis begin?

Sometime around 2:30pm, along Sokoto Road, by the Railway Clinic, a group of youths started coming from the PZ end, close to the spiritual headquarters of the Islamic Movement in Nigeria.

What they did was to start encircling the convoy of the Chief of the Army Staff.   We came down, we pleaded with them and we wanted them to see reason but, before you could say Jack  Robinson, some of them had started throwing stones and you could hear loud bangs.

People who were responsible for the safety and security of the Chief of the Army Staff had to clear the way for the Chief of the Army  Staff.

They had made bonfires and there was stone-throwing all over the place and no  amount  of pleading could get them to see reason.

They made it clear that they had done it to several other people and that the Chief of the Army Staff was nobody and he could not pass through that road.

Remember again, there were series of arguments.   They alleged that some days ago, some security operatives went to a particular village and murdered their people.   Meanwhile, there was nothing like that.   What actually happened was that there was an altercation between the Islamic  movement and some other Islamic sect over the location or ownership of a mosque.   Then they changed the argument that they were having a funeral procession.

For goodness sake, there was’t any funeral procession and, of course, when the leader was giving an interview on the BBC Hausa Service, he said they were hoisting a flag.

Please,  which flag are you going to hoist at 2.30 in the afternoon?

And, in any case, in the Federal Republic of Nigeria, there is no flag that is more important than the National Flag.

I want to honestly tell you that all these things were premeditated, they were planned and, before you knew it, they  started  encircling.

And the advance party of the Chief of the Army Staff, some 15 minutes earlier, passed through the same place without any incident.

The arrival of the Chief of the Army Staff was well publicised and these people were aware that the convoy was that of the Chief of the Army Staff and they decided to ambush it.

Were these people armed?

Certainly they were armed

What sort of arms were they carrying?

The least were machete and catapult.

They also had petrol bombs and were always hiding behind trees

Had there been any issue between the authorities and the Shiite Islamic Movement in Nigeria before that day?

Many Nigerians and those who have had encounters with these people know that they have always constituted a nuisance. I would rather ask you to find out from those living in Zaria or those who traverse the road between Zaria, Kaduna and Kano; they will tell you of their agony, but I can tell you of a particular incident during one of their processions. There was a woman whose child was sick. Her  husband was in Abuja   and she wanted to get to the hospital but she was  stuck in one place for over five hours. Some time last year, a soldier was attacked with a machete on the head.   We have living witnesses. Even this recent one, the Chief of the Army Staff’s car was stoned and scratched.

Considering the ugly  situation which happened last year when the sect leader lost three of his sons, and now this,  don’t you think the situation could have been better managed?

Let me make this clear, the Nigeria Army does not have any problem with anybody or any group of persons.   We are against criminals and criminality and whoever is not ready to  operate within the ambit of the Nigerian law, something must be done about that. In any case, to be better handled by who?   The  perpetrators who made an attempt on the life of the Chief of the Army Staff or the Nigeria Army?

When you say assassination  attempt, was there  truly an assassination attempt?

What I want you to understand is that there is abundant evidence and there are witnesses to the circumstances that led to the events of Saturday. What I want you to know is that they were quite aware that the Chief of the Army Staff was passing and it was made abundantly clear to them that it was the Chief of the Army Staff and his entourage performing a legitimate official duty and they refused to budge.  Rather than reason, they started taking position as per military tactics on a federal road.

So, how did the military get to his home and started exchanging gun fire?

Like I told you earlier, that aspect is subject to inquiry and I  don’t want to discuss that.

The headquarters of  the Islamic Movement in Nigeria appears to have been levelled.   What would you say informed the decision of the Nigeria Army to take such a step?

What I want you to understand is that we are targeting criminals and criminality.   And whatever transpired is subject to inquiry and I  wouldn’t want to comment on that; I would urge that we await the report of the inquiry. Some people  have tried to insinuate that we were seeking vengeance, but there is nothing like that. Possibly, it is the Movement that would have said it has grouses against the Nigeria Army, but the Nigeria Army has never been against any individual or any group of individuals.

Why would they have a grouse against the Nigeria Army?   Has the Army offended them in any way?

Just as earlier said, like losing sons and earlier they were talking about the incident that happened in Zaria.

Let me tell you, when the present Chief of the Army Staff came on board, he requested for all the files, and he wanted to get to the bottom of the crisis that happened last year and ensure that justice is done.

People are worried because a mishandling of a similar thing in Borno led us to the crisis of Boko Haram?   So, why  didn’t the military take action knowing what it had known about the sect and not waiting until an alleged  attempt on the life of the Chief of the Army Staff?

I can understand their worries given the history of Boko Haram, but I can assure that the Nigeria Army and every reasonable Nigerian has learned lessons from that ugly incident and we don’t want that kind of thing to repeat itself and that is why it needed to be nipped in the bud. And unlike the previous instance when the law was circumscribed, the law is being followed diligently and I will implore  Nigerians to be patient.

 

*This interview was first aired on Channels Television last Tuesday.

Our El-Zakzaky story, by the Army

Nigerian Army reduces 66 soldiers death sentence to 10 years imprisonment

The Nigerian Army has commuted the death sentences it passed on 66 solders earlier this year to 10 years imprisonment.

Minmah, Soldier

This was contained in the statement by the Acting Director, Army Public Relations, Col. Sani Usman, on Saturday.

The army had in January and March 2015 in separate courts martial sentenced the 66 soldiers to death by firing squad for mutiny and other charges.

“The soldiers were arraigned on several count charges that include criminal conspiracy, conspiracy to commit mutiny, mutiny, attempt to commit an offence (murder), disobedience to particular orders, insubordinate behaviour and false accusation, among others,” the statement, which noted that 71 soldiers were tried, said.

“They were tried, discharged on some charges but found guilty and convicted on other charges which included mutiny. Out of the number, 66 were found guilty on some of the count charges and sentenced to death, while five were discharged and acquitted and one was given 28 days imprisonment with hard labour.

It added that the cases of other soldiers were being reviewed and would be made public once the appropriate reviews are completed.

The decision to commute the sentence of the soldiers, the army said, following series of petitions.

The petitions caused the Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Tukur Buratai, to order a legal review of the cases.

“The directive was carried out to examine the merit of each case. It was on the basis of the review and recommendations that the Chief of Army Staff commuted the death sentences of the 66 soldiers to 10 years jail term. The sentences are to run concurrently,” the army said.

Nigerian Army reduces 66 soldiers death sentence to 10 years imprisonment

Zaria Massacre: CAN, NSCIA demand judicial commission of inquiry, call for calm

The Christian Association of Nigeria, CAN, and Nigeria Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs, NSCIA, have urged the Nigerian government to investigate the killing of several members of the Shi’ia sect during a clash with the Nigerian Army in Zaria, Kaduna State.

Ayo oritsejafor

The army had on Saturday clashed with the group. The exact number of those killed is yet to be ascertained.

CAN and NSCIA are the highest decision-making bodies of the two major religions in Nigeria, and serve as the umbrella bodies of all Christian and Muslim groups respectively.

While CAN urged President Muhammadu Buhari to intervene and probe the killings “to avoid the escalation of the crisis”, NSCIA set up a seven-man contact committee to meet with all parties “in the interest of peace and security in Nigeria”.

A statement by the national secretary of CAN, Musa Asake, said although the body would not pre-empt any action to be taken by the government and the Nigerian Army, it would sue for peace between the two contending parties.

CAN demanded the setting up of a judicial panel of inquiry to establish the cause of the crisis and prevent a reoccurrence.

It drew the president’s “attention to the fact that similar circumstances as this led to the escalation of belligerence from the Jamā’at Ahl as-Sunnah lid-Da’wah wa’l-Jihād, also known as Boko Haram”.

While urging that no harm should be done to the spiritual leader of the Islamic Movement in Nigeria, Ibrahim El-Zakzaky, CAN said the establishment of the panel would help forestall fresh insurgent activities in the country.

The association said it “observed, with much sadness, the altercation between the Nigerian Army and Muslim faithful of the Shia Islamic movement, which led to loss of lives of many members of the Shiite”.

“Our faith is bed-rocked on love. We do not only love ourselves, but we also love our neighbours and Shiite Muslims are our neighbours,” the Christian body said.

The Christian body however condemned reports by an Iranian Network, Press TV, which reportedly claimed that CAN had colluded with Boko Haram and the Nigerian Army to perpetrate the killings of Shi’ia Muslims.

“This is a most unfortunate accusation especially given the fact that CAN has consistently sympathized with the Shias over previous clashes with the authorities,” the association said.

“We urge the Iranian backed Press TV to be mindful of its reportage in order not to stoke religious tensions in Nigeria. We work on the assumption that that is not their intention.”

The association also called “on all lovers of God, be they Christian or Muslims, whether Sunni or Shia, to keep the peace and await judicious action from constituted authority”.

On its part, the Muslim body, NSCIA, set up a seven-man committee to meet with all parties involved in Saturday’s clash.

The decision to set up the committee was taken at an expanded general purpose committee meeting comprising notable Muslims and heads of all Islamic organizations in Nigeria.

The meeting held on Wednesday at the National Mosque in Abuja.

The Secretary General of the NSCIA, Is-haq Oloyede, who spoke with reporters at the end of the meeting, said Muslim leaders decided to come together “to express their concern about what is happening in Zaria and call for restraint on the part of all stakeholders in the interest of peace and security of Nigeria”.

He said NSCIA had also decided to call on the Nigerian government to set up a judicial commission of inquiry to probe the incident.

“Council also decided to set up a seven-man contact committee to meet with all parties and call for caution that we should await the report of the commission of inquiry,” he said.

The group’s scribe said, Daud Naibi would serve as the chairman of the committee, while Muzammil Hanga, Abubakar Tsav, Ibrahim Suleiman, Yusuf Ali, Abubakar Siddique and Is-haq Oloyede would serve as members.

Mr. Oloyede, a professor, said the judicial panel inquiry that should be set up by the government should include all relevant persons and organisations, including the NSCIA.

“If possible members of the group concerned should also be represented on the commission so that whatever comes out would be something that is credible and would be seen as impartial,” he said.

Mr. Oloyede said another decision taken at the meeting was a call to all Muslims in Nigeria to take advantage of the next Jumaat prayer on Friday “to offer special prayers for this country”.

He said with adequate prayers, God would aid the return of peace to the country.

Mr. Oloyede also called on the government and citizens to always adhere to the laws of the land.

“We continue to call for caution from all parties including the aggrieved and we call on the government and the citizens of this country that the best way to solving any grievances or infractions is through the rule of law.

“We should always seek the law as a solution to any of the problems we have, rather than self-help either on the part of the government or the citizenry,” he said.

The meeting was chaired by the supreme leader of the NSCIA, the Sultan of Sokoto, Saad Abubakar, and was attended by several Muslim leaders across the country.

Zaria Massacre: CAN, NSCIA demand judicial commission of inquiry, call for calm

Troops after fleeing terrorists in North East – Army

The Nigerian Army has said that its troops are pursuing escaping terrorists and also moving to further block any incursion by the terrorists in the North East.

This is contained in a statement issued by the Acting Army Spokesman, Col. Sani Usman, on Wednesday in Maiduguri.

Usman said locations recently attacked by terrorists had also been reinforced and the troops were poised to contain any eventuality.

He said the coming weeks would be critical in the operation geared toward destroying all known locations of the terrorists.

“As we enter the month of December, it is important to state that we have also entered a very critical part of the fight against terrorism in our country.

“The Nigerian Army wishes to reiterate its total commitment and determination to the war against the Boko Haram terrorists.

“Consequently, we solicit for the continued support, cooperation and understanding of all Nigerians in this regard,” the statement quoted Usman as saying.

He said troops in the recent operation in Gulak recovered a Toyota Hilux, several arms and items from the insurgents.

“Some of the arms include one PKM gun, one General Purpose Machine Gun, three AK-47 rifles, one Rocket Propelled Grenade tube and one Rocket Propelled Grenade bomb.

“Other recoveries include one charger, seven boxes of 7.62mm link, one GP 340 Hand Held Radio, four boxes of 7.62mm X 54mm ammunition, three Anti Riot Hand Held Grenade, as well as 30 Cleaning Kits, two Packets of Artillery Primers and 97 pieces of Zela fuse.”

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) recalls that suspected insurgents recently attacked Gulak in Adamawa and Gajigana in Borno.

Troops after fleeing terrorists in North East – Army

Boko Haram: It’s shameful to cover-up killing of our soldiers - Fani-Kayode tells Buhari, Army

Former Minister of Aviation, Olufemi Fani-Kayode, has taken a swipe at President Muhammadu Buhari, the Minister of Defence, Rtd Brig. Gen. Mansur Mohammed Dan Ali and the Chief of Army Staff, Lt Gen Tukur Yusuf Buratai over the alleged ‘secret burial’ of soldiers killed by Boko Haram insurgents.

Femi Fani-Kayode

“The most reprehensible thing that our government can do is to cover-up the fact that 105 of our soldiers were killed by Boko Haram in battle.It is evil”.

“A soldier ought to be honored in death and this is especially so if he dies in the course of doing his duty and fighting for his nation”.

“The government has not only dishonored them by not acknowledging their sacrifice but they have also buried them in the wilderness like rabid dogs”

“This is wickedness of the highest order and Pres. Buhari, his Chief of Army Staff and his Min. of Defence should bury their heads in shame”.

“I am outraged by the fact that a soldier will sacrifice his life for his country yet the citizens of that country don’t even appreciate it,” he posted on his Twitter Handle.

Recall that the Nigerian Army, Tuesday, quietly buried several dead soldiers at the military cemetery in Maiduguri, according to THISDAY newspaper.

Online news website, Premium Times, had reported that 105 soldiers attached to the 157 Battalion were killed after they came under a penetrating attack from Boko Haram in Gudunbali.

However, the Director of Army Public Relations at the Defence Headquarters (DHQ) in Abuja, Col.Sani Usman, described the report as a smear camapiagn against the Nigerian military. He also told THISDAY newspapers that the burial that took place was not that of the purported 105 dead or missing soldiers.

Boko Haram: It’s shameful to cover-up killing of our soldiers - Fani-Kayode tells Buhari, Army

We did not lose 105 soldiers - Nigerian Army

Abuja – Chief of Army staff, Lt. General Tukur Buratai has waved aside reports that about 105 soldiers prosecuting the war against Boko Haram terrorists met their untimely death when they failed to return in a bid to annihilate the terrorists in the North East.

The media had been awashed with news that about 100 Nigerian soldiers were missing after Boko Haram attacks in the epicenter of the battle.

But General Buratai in a telephone conversation with Vanguard said, “It is not true that our soldiers are missing. The soldiers went on a mission for the Nigerian nation and they have since returned and joined their Battalions”.

The confident Chief of Army Staff said that insinuation is a figment of imagination of the authors of the story.

Media reports had indicated that the Army may have lost about 150 of its men to an attack by Boko Haram insurgents in Gudunbali, Borno State.

It was claimed that the terrorists attacked at Gudunbali in Borno State, on Wednesday and as a result the 157 Battalion of the Nigerian Army could not account for at least, 105 soldiers including their commanding officer.

According an online media, the terrorists also captured a T-72 tank as well as several artillery weapons from the unit.

“Gudunbali was attacked this morning and some weapons were captured from the battalion. Two officers and 105 soldiers are still missing”.

The terrorists captured a T-72 tank from the unit and some artillery weapons were also captured. The commanding Officer (CO) of the battalion is yet to be seen but no one has been confirmed dead yet,” the source added.

Another source however said the T-72 tank was recovered after a prolonged fight with Boko Haram insurgents. The gunner and tank commander were injured in the process, he said.

Also reportedly captured by the insurgents were eight vehicles, a truck loaded with 60,000 rounds of AA ammunition and three artillery pieces.

Similarly, soldiers of the Multi-National Joint Task Force (MNJTF) stationed at Baga, Borno State also recently came under attack. The attack occurred in Geringiwa at about four kilometers to the headquarters of MNJTF, PREMIUM TIMES has also been told.

According to a source, the military has been unable to completely clear the insurgents from Baga and nearby towns due to inadequate equipment.

Boko Haram carried out a series of mass killings in Baga between January 3 and January 7, 2015, after the army headquarters there was sacked by the insurgents.

Although the military later liberated the town, soldiers stationed in the area have come under constant attacks from the insurgents.

.

The attacks on the military came on the heels of the suicide attacks on Yola and Kano respectively.

We did not lose 105 soldiers - Nigerian Army

Nigerian Military vows to continue assault on Boko Haram

The Nigerian Armed Forces have renewed commitment to continue the ongoing coordinated joint assaults on Boko Haram in the northeast until the operation of the guerrillas are totally impaired and collapsed.

According to a statement by the Military Headquarter, the coordinated operation of the security forces in the contested area designed to dismantle the technical pre-eminence and capabilities of the terrorist group would intensify because the masquerading guerrillas should not be given any breathing space to regroup and re-strategize their campaign

“For optimum success in the counteroffensives, the recent deployment of the 7th Brigade of the Multinational Joint Task Force (MNJTF) in the Lake Chad Basin would ensure a total blockade of possible escape routes in the area to forestall further infiltration of the terrorist elements into the country and its neighbours.”

The Nigerian army therefore, warned the terrorists to stop their mindless acts of violence and embrace peace in order that they might become useful citizens contributing positively to the socioeconomic development of not just the northeast but the country as a whole.

Nigerian Military vows to continue assault on Boko Haram

Nigerian Army accuses Borno leaders of plotting to prolong Boko Haram insurgency

The Nigerian Army on Friday raised alarm over plans by “some highly-placed individuals” in the North East, particularly Borno State, to sabotage military operations in the region.

A statement by the army spokesman, Sani Usman, said the elite were bent on having the activities of the Boko Haram terrorists prolonged for their selfish interests.

Mr. Usman, a colonel, did not however state in clear terms the means through which the notable individuals were undermining the war against terrorism or how they would benefit from the insurgency when prolonged.

“The Nigerian Army wishes to inform the public and send a very strong and serious final warning to some prominent individuals and political groups who hailed from Borno State in particular and North East generally, that there is information of plans by some highly placed individuals and political groups to undermine and scuttle the fight against terrorism and insurgency in this country.

“The unscrupulous individuals and their cohorts were determined to reverse the gains made and scuttle our efforts of achieving the Presidential directive to defeat Boko Haram terrorists within 3 months. They are enlisting the services of some Non-Governmental Organizations in this grand design.

“It has come to our knowledge that they were employing every means to see that the 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 lost of lives and property in this country through terrorists activities does not one any good,” the army spokesman said.

Nigerian Army accuses Borno leaders of plotting to prolong Boko Haram insurgency

Nigerian Army destroys Boko Haram fuel dump

Troops of 3rd Division of Nigerian Army on Wednesday swooped over and dismantled a Boko Haram fuel dump located at Ladu Dumbawa ward, Guzamala Local Government Area of Borno State, Colonel Sani Usman, spokesperson of the Army said in a statement released on Thursday.

Boko Haram fuel dump

According to Usman the troops were led to the depot three out of the seven persons who have been kidnapped earlier from Gabajere village and taken to the same location by some members of Boko Haram.

Usman said, “It would be recalled that suspected Boko Haram terrorists had abducted seven persons in Gajabere and took them to the same location.

“Those kidnapped were three local wards heads known as “Lawani” and their deputies, as well as the Chief Imam of the town. However, through sheer guts and bravery, 3 of them escaped and reported the matter to the security which led to the rescue of the rest and discovery of the well concealed terrorists fuel depot which was also destroyed by troops”.`

In the same vein, the spokesman also informed that troops have further blocked the terrorists supply route that led to Babangida in Tarmuwa Local Government Area of Yobe State where they mostly get the supplies while they are intensifying efforts to identify and neutralise all Boko Haram logistic bases to further constrict the terrorists and hasten their total defeat.

He further appealed to citizens are please requested to furnish the military and security agencies with information on all known terrorists’ location, routes, suppliers of fuel, food, clothing and any good or service to the terrorists.

Nigerian Army destroys Boko Haram fuel dump

Nigerian military set for final crackdown of Boko Haram

• – Rescued persons reach 229, as terrorists flee

By Senator Iroegbu in Abuja

The ongoing offensive against the Boko Haram terrorists in the North-east is gaining successful momentum with most of the camps falling, as the Nigerian military pushes for the final defeat of the terrorists.

Nigeria soldiers fighting Boko Haram

The Director of Army Public Relations (DAPR), Col. Sani Usman, disclosed this yesterday, saying the advancing troops have captured the villages of Jerre and Dipchari and have destroyed the terrorists camps located in those areas.

Usman also confirmed that the troops have also dislodged Boko Hararm terrorists from Dissa and Balazala villages located in the same Gwoza Local Government Area during which they rescued 23 men, 33 women and 34 children from the terrorists bringing total of those rescued on Saturday to 229.

“The advancing troops in the Bama axis have rescued yet another 62 people fleeing from Bitti and Pulka. The troops are also combing all known enclaves of the terrorists within Bama, Banki and Pulka general area. In addition, due to the offensive action of the military, another fleeing 22 women, 15 men and 40 children arrived Bama today (yesterday),” he disclosed.

According to Usman, the rescued persons who looked haggard, dejected and malnourished, are being catered for by the troops pending the intervention of the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA).

Meanwhile, he said, the persons have been cooperating with the military as they have been giving useful information that is assisting the federal troops in their offensive operations.

Usman also disclosed that about eight suspected Boko Haram terrorists yesterday surrendered themselves to troops of 21 Brigade Nigerian Army, adding that terrorists are being investigated and screened for more information.

Another fleeing person, he said, Bulama Bukar, whose right hand was amputated by the terrorists in Sambisa about a year ago based on allegation of stealing a bag of beans was intercepted by the troops at Jebra bridge yesterday with his family.

Usman also announced that “the military Engineers are making progress in the repairs of the bridge linking Maiduguri and Gamboru Ngala that was blown by Boko Haram terrorists. The bridge repairs would soon be completed.”

In a related development, the Army Spokesman revealed that some school and villages, which was forced to either close down or deserted as a result of Boko Haram terrorists in parts of the North East have reopened.

To assist returnees and other Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) with education of their children, he said, the Nigerian military has reopened a mixed  Primary School in Gwoza, Gwoza Local Government Area (LGA) of Borno State.

He said the military in conjunction with other security agencies and other security stakeholders have placed adequate security measures to ensure the pupils and teachers’ safety and security. Already, he added, classes have commenced and the turnout was quite impressive.

Meanwhile, in a twist of fate, the Boko Haram terrorists are now fleeing from the Nigerian military advancement, abandoning their camps in parts of the North-east.

The DAPR, Col. Usman in a statement yesterday said the fleeing terrorists also left behind their vehicles, flags and foodstuffs at Kotambe Kote and Jere axis.

Usman also disclosed that the troops of 101 Battalion along with members of Nigeria Police Explosive Ordinance Device (EOD) team, successfully detonated two bicycles laden with primed Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs) at Awaisari village near Alou Dam.

Nigerian military set for final crackdown of Boko Haram

Eight Boko Haram members surrender to Nigerian army

Eight suspected Boko Haram terrorists on Saturday surrendered  to troops of 21 Brigade of the Nigerian Army, the army said

A statement by army spokesman, Sani Usman, said the suspected terrorists were being investigated and screened for more information.

Mr. Usman said the army had also apprehended another person whose arm was chopped off by the terrorists on the suspicion of theft.

“Bulama Bukar, whose right hand was amputated by the terrorists in Sambisa about a year ago based on allegation of stealing a bag of beans, was intercepted by our troops at Jebra bridge today with his family,” he said.

The spokesman also revealed that the military was pushing for the final defeat of Boko Haram terrorists, the fight against the terrorists as most of the camps were falling to government troops.

“The advancing troops have captured the villages of Jerre and Dipchari and have destroyed the terrorists camps located in those areas.

“The troops in the Bama axis have rescued yet another 62 people fleeing from Bitti and Pulka. The troops are also combing all known enclaves of the terrorists within Bama, Banki and Pulka general area.

“In addition, due to the offensive action of the military, another fleeing 22 women 15 men and 40 children arrived Bama today.

“The rescued persons looking haggard, dejected and obviously malnourished are being catered for by the troops pending the intervention of the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA).

“Meanwhile, the persons have been cooperating with the military as they have been giving useful information that is assisting our troops in their offensive operations,” Mr. Usman said.

He also said military engineers were making tremendous progress in the repairs of the bridge linking Maiduguri and Gamboru Ngala that was blown by Boko Haram terrorists.

Mr. Usman, a colonel, said the bridge repairs would soon be completed.

Eight Boko Haram members surrender to Nigerian army

Army captures over 200 Boko Haram insurgents in Adamawa

The Department of Civil Military Affairs at the Army Headquarters, said on Wednesday that it had captured and de-radicalised over 200 Boko Haram insurgents in Adamawa.

Boko Haram

Brig.-Gen. V O Ezugwu, the Commander, 28 Task Force Brigade, Mubi made the disclosure at the opening of a two-day sensitisation programme on de-radicalization held in Mubi, Adamawa.

“This Brigade has rescued and de-radicalised over 200 Boko Haram insurgents from November 2014 to date.

“And the beneficiaries of this programme numbers in terms of thousands,” Ezugwu said.

According to the commander, military operations alone cannot provide a holistic solution to eradicating terrorism and insurgency in the country.

“There is need for a collaborative approach involving political, diplomatic, economic, timely information and other related lines of counter insurgency operation,” Ezugwu said.

He said that the seminar was part of efforts by the Nigerian Army High Command to deepen collaboration with all stakeholders.

In his lecture on relationship between the military and civil populace, Col. Victor Olatunji said that the Nigerian Army was committed to respect for human rights in the discharge of its responsibilities.

Olatunji assured that the Army would not trample on the rights of any Nigerian including captured Boko Haram terrorists.

He advised the participants to offer useful suggestions that would promote good relationship between the military and the civil populace for the benefit of all.

Army captures over 200 Boko Haram insurgents in Adamawa

Boko Haram members panic, surrender to troops – Army

The military says scores of terrorists in the North-East have continued to surrender to troops in the frontline due to sustained offensive by ground troops and pre-emptive air strikes by Nigerian Air Force.

A statement issued on Sunday in Abuja by the acting Army Director of Public Relations, Col. Sani Usman, said more terrorists had also indicated willingness to lay down arms.

The statement said the ground troops had also adopted routes blocking strategy in a bid to “constrict and snuff out the Boko Haram terrorists from their hideouts.”

“Many of the terrorists that willingly surrendered painted images of mass panic and hysteria among their erstwhile colleagues.

“They said their colleagues are feeling the noose tightening on their necks with the relentless efforts of troops and renewed vigour in the operations inspired by the personal leadership of the Chief of Army Staff.

“Terrorists also seem to have an inkling of what happens to surrendered suspects as regards screening and de-radicalisation of innocent ones among them,” it said.

The statement said the Nigerian Army, in conjunction with the Nigerian Air Force and other security agencies, would continue to employ effective strategies to bring the insurgency to a speedy end.

It said the military would continue to receive surrendering suspects and assured innocent ones among them that “surrendering is the only option open to them.”

Boko Haram members panic, surrender to troops – Army

Shootings aborted Rivers gov poll, army tells tribunal

The Nigerian Army again on Thursday told the Rivers State Governorship Elections Petition Tribunal sitting in Abuja how the April 11, 2015 governorship election was aborted by hijacking of electoral materials and sporadic shootings in four local government areas in the state.

Four officers, who appeared before the tribunal on Thursday, on the strength of the subpoena served on the Chief of Army Staff, Maj.-Gen. Tukur Buratai, said they led separate army patrol troops in Abua/Odual, Ikwerre, Gokana and Ogba/Egbema/Ndoni Local Government Areas of the state.

The witnesses were Captain Sadiq Abubakar (leader of the patrol troop in ‎Abual/Odua); Captain Fred Bala (leader of the patrol troop in Ogba/Egbema/Ndoni), Isa Al-Makura ( leader of the troop in Ikwerre) and Captain Jeremiah Salihu (leader of the troop in Gokana).

The subpoena served on the Chief of Army Staff was obtained from the tribunal by the All Progressives Congress and its candidate in the election, Dr. Dakuku Peterside, who are, by their petition, challenging the declaration of Governor Nyesom Wike of the Peoples Democratic Party as winner of the poll.

The witnesses testified before the Justice Mohammed Ambrosa-led tribunal‎ on Thursday, painting pictures of tense environment ignited by sporadic shootings with the poll aborted by widespread hijacking of electoral materials before accreditation of voters could commence in most of the polling units in their areas.

They maintained during cross-examination by counsel for the respondents – ‎Dr. Onyechi Ikpeazu (SAN) for the Independent National Electoral Commission; Mr. Emmanuel Ukala (SAN) for Wike and Mr. fedayo Adedipe (SAN) representing the PDP – that there was no evidence of conduct of election in their various areas on April 11.

Earlier on Wednesday, another captain of the army, Garba Sani, ‎who led an army of patrol troops in Tai Local Government Area during the election, appeared before the tribunal on the strength of the supboena served on the Chief of Army Staff, testifying that election did not hold in the entire area on April 11.

With the army officers’ appearance in the tribunal, the petitioners at the end of the Thursday’s hearing had called 39 witnesses.

The army officers, who were led in evidence by their lawyers, Chief Akin Olujinmi (SAN) and Chief Niyi Akintola (SAN), denied allegations leveled against them by the respondents’ lawyers that they appeared before the tribunal in order to help the APC.

Captain Al-Makura, who patrolled Ikwerre LGA with 30 soldiers, said he visited all the parts of the area, including Omerelu, Ubima, Apani, Alu, Ozuaha and Isokpo‎, the local government headquarters, and never noticed anywhere voting took place on the election day.

He said, “In Ozuaha, roads were barricaded and on sighting our patrol vehicles the hoodlums who mounted the barricade ran into the bush. We received calls and on getting to some polling units, the INEC ad hoc staff told us that some hoodlums came and beat them, collected electoral materials and ran away.

“I never saw any electioneering taking place in any of the wards.”

The witness, who was deployed from 101 Battalion in Giwa Barracks in Maiduguri, Borno State, said, “That same day, we started hearing gunshots in the town. I had to move my men to see if we could arrest those who were firing the shots. At Okiri Street to be precise, we picked 13 shells on the ground.

“In the morning of the election, there was still gunshots at the local government headquarters. There was distribution of electoral mat‎erials at the INEC office but I can tell you that before they got to their destinations they were hijacked.”

Shootings aborted Rivers gov poll, army tells tribunal

Boko Haram drug suppliers caught with cannabis, others

The troops of the Nigerian Army have intercepted some   suspected members of the Boko Haram sect believed to be suppliers of hard drugs and other stimulants to the deadly sect.

Boko Haram drug supplier

The Acting Director, Army Public Relations, Col. Sani Usman, said in a statement on Tuesday that the suspects were arrested at Depchi and Geidam in Geidam Local Government Area of Yobe State.

He said that the arrested terrorists were also involved in the supply of fuel aside from the hard drugs in their possession.

Usman listed the drugs to include cannabis, chlorophone substance known as Madaran suck and die, trampoline and others .

“Following Army Headquarters directive to troops in the North-East for a painstaking search of motorists and cargoes, troops of the 3 Division of the Nigerian Army have intercepted and arrested some kingpins and foot soldiers of suppliers of Boko Haram terrorists with hard drugs and other stimulants between Depchi and Geidam, Geidam Local Government Area in northern part of Yobe State today,” the statement read in part.

He recalled that most of the Boko Haram members captured by the troops could not read the Holy Quran.

Usman added that some of them could not even recite the first chapter of the Quran in spite of their claim that they had a desire to establish an Islamic state.

He said that troops carrying out raids on the hideouts of the insurgents had not found the Quran or other Islamic books with the insurgents.

The Acting Army spokesman said that the troops had only found “ammunition, local charms, condoms and all sort of drugs including sex enhancing ones in their enclave.”

Usman, who said that those arrested had made statements, promised that the Army would continue to work towards ensuring the security of the country.

“The Nigerian Army would continue to do its best in the fight against terrorism and insurgency in our country in order to make Nigeria safe and secure.

“This however, requires continuous support and cooperation of the public. We always welcome and appreciate information that could lead to the arrest and pre-empting the Boko Haram terrorists and other criminal elements in the society,” he added.

Boko Haram drug suppliers caught with cannabis, others

Many terrorists killed as Nigerian troops advance into enclaves - Nigerian Army

As part of the continued offensive operations against the Boko Haram terrorists, troops of 7 Brigade Friday entered and cleared Gudumbali town in Kukawa Local Government Area of Borno State, the spokesperson for the Nigerian Army, Sani Usman, has said.

Boko Haram

“During the operation, quite a number of the terrorists were killed their weapons and equipment were destroyed,” Mr. Usman, a colonel, said.

He added, “The troops are currently doing clearance operations in the general area.

“It should be recalled that the Nigerian Air Force has inflicted heavy damage on the terrorists camps within the general area last Monday.

“In a related development, troops of 5 Brigade Explosive Ordinance Devices (EOD) Unit while advancing towards Dikwa, ran into landmines buried by the terrorists.

“Unfortunately, two soldiers lost their lives, while two others were critically injured. The bodies of the two gallant soldiers have been evacuated, to the rear, while the other two wounded soldiers have also been evacuated and are receiving treatment at the military hospital.

“The unit also lost a Mowag Armoured Personnel Carrier (APC) due to the buried landmine between old Marte and Kerenoa junction in Guzamala Local Government Area of Borno State.

“Despite this sad event, the troops are not deterred as they continued their advance and pursuing the terrorists to their enclaves in Sambisa forest.

“Similarly, it is important to note that troops in the various formations and units in Operation LAFIYA DOLE are in high spirit and more determined to destroy the terrorists camps and enclaves.”

Many terrorists killed as Nigerian troops advance into enclaves - Nigerian Army

Monguno: We Are Going into Action to End Boko Haram

Michael Olugbode in Maiduguri and Senator Iroegbu in Abuja

The National Security Adviser (NSA), Maj-Gen. Babagana Monguno (rtd.) along side four other service chiefs, arrived Maiduguri on Friday for reassessment of military operations, with a promise that they would swiftly roll into action forthwith, put an end to the Boko Haram madness and return the North-east to the path of orderliness.

Monguno, leading the four other service chiefs,  Gen. Abayomi Gabriel Olonishakin (Defence), Lt. Gen, Tukur Buratai (Army), Air Marshal Sadiq Baba Abubakar (Air Force) and Inspector-General of Police (IGP) Solomon Arase (Police), said the military was making a final push for the Boko Haram with the sole aim of bringing them to their knees.

Monguno said: “In less than 24 hours after we were sworn-in and decorated by the President, we are here in Maiduguri, for the reassessment of military operations and to end terrorism in three months.”

He said the President had picked the right service chiefs to end terrorism and assured the governor and the people of Borno State that the service chiefs would not be found wanting in the fight to end terrorism that has claimed many lives and property.

The NSA said: “We are here in Maiduguri to end this terrorism. We are to assess all the military operational details that will facilitate various aerial and ground troops to put an end to Boko Haram.”

He however admitted that the military alone cannot end insurgency.

Monguno said: “The victory over Boko Haram cannot be won without involving the larger society.

“We are here for all of you affected by this terrorism that has claimed the lives of many of your sons, daughters, parents, guardians, including your traditional and religious leaders sacked from towns and villages for over six years. We want you also to help us with credible information to end this terrorism.

“We need the civil society to end this. I will be deceiving you if I say it will take only the military to solve this problem.

“We are here to tell you we are up to the task, but it is a two-way traffic. We need your assistance. We need information and they (the people) need to come out of the closets to assist us.

“I know there has been mutual suspicion in the past, but it is time to work together to put an end to this terrorism.”

Responding, Governor Kashim Shettima said: “The people of Borno and North-east can not ask for more. We have had our own fair share of service chiefs. We have what it takes to make Boko Haram a thing of the past. We will give you all the support to end this killings.

“With the appointment of the service chiefs, we cannot ask for more. All we need is to give them our support. The Boko Haram cannot survive if we the people of Borno say no enough is enough.

“If this madness comes to an end, your names will be written in gold in the annals of the history of the country. The country and its citizenry will be proud of you all.”

Shettima assured that he would do his best to create jobs for the teeming youths of the state.

Buratai seeks cooperation of Army, DSS…

The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Tukur Buratai has reaffirmed Nigerian Army’s commitment and determination to carry out its constitutional roles, soliciting for cooperation and support from the Department of State Security Service (DSS).

Buratai made this call yesterday when he paid a courtesy call on the Director-General, DSS, Alhaji Lawal Daura in his office at Asokoro, Abuja.

The COAS congratulated Daura on his recent appointment and highlighted the strategic importance of the DSS and its special role, particularly in the area of intelligence gathering and enjoined the Department to synergise with the Army.

Buratai also solicited for joint training among the personnel of both institutions to enable them collaborate and share ideas for successful joint operations.

He noted that coordination in specific areas was critical and promised that the Nigerian Army would provide the requisite expertise in such areas of collaboration when called upon.

Responding, the Director-General, DSS enjoined officers and soldiers of the Nigerian Army to consider the DSS, as a partner in the security of the nation.

Daura said: “Let me state unequivocally that the DSS is an extension of the Nigerian Army.”

He also stated that the two institutions have a lot in common, promising that the cordial relationship already existing between them would continue to grow from strength to strength.

The DSS boss pointed that due to the peculiarity of the present security challenges facing the nation, there was need for synergy between them.

He affirmed that the two institutions had never failed in any joint operations, stressing that the DSS would continue to give the Army tremendous support it needs to succeed in its operations.

Monguno: We Are Going into Action to End Boko Haram