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Boko Haram: How Nigerian Army reacts to alleged secret release of terrorists in Borno

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Boko Haram: How Nigerian Army reacts to alleged secret release of terrorists in Borno

Boko Haram: How Nigerian Army reacts to alleged secret release of terrorists in Borno

Boko Haram insurgency has killed over 30,000 people in Northeast Nigeria since the group began its campaign against the Nigerian state and its people in 2009 following the riot in Maiduguri, the Borno state capital. The group also displaced over 3,000,000 people making Borno state particularly a harbinger of poverty, disease and death in the last 12 years.

Recently, Boko Haram fighters have been coming out to surrender to the Nigerian troops. This has brought a lot of joy to the people and encourages soldiers to see a yield in their efforts to tame these fighters, ruining the peace of the land.

Residents of Maiduguri, the Borno state capital however have some reservations about stories making the round that repentant Boko Haram terrorists were being secretly released by the military authorities and these terrorists go back after gathering intelligence about happening in the city thus add to the lingering crises in the Northeast as the released terrorists find new targets to hit from the information they gathered.

Dr. Ahmad Shehu, a resident of Maiduguri told NEWSng that, while the terrorists are surrendering, the people of Borno state are happy and seeing the end of the crises at hand. But the rumour making the roundabout releasing terrorists is not encouraging of the peace-building approach given the fact that citizens are not yet comfortable with even those terrorists that have undergone de-radicalization.

“We learned that some of these terrorists are being released. I think I was reading it some days back and I was sharing it with my colleague in the office. If that is so, then we may as well think that there is a collaboration of sorts, which is not healthy for the achievements being made. That indicates that there are saboteurs within the military.” He said.

Hussaini Musa, a security analyst in Maiduguri asked whether the claim being made was referring to terrorists who already undergo de-radicalization that are being released or some terrorists who were recently arrested by troops or those who were said to be surrendering.

Read Also: Boko Haram: Over 600 militants so far surrendered to troops in Borno

“Yes, one of the Chibok girls- Ruth, abducted in 2014 has been released to her family. She came with two kids and many other victims like that. I do not think the military is releasing Boko Haram fighters. If wives of Boko Haram fighters were released it would be a joyous thing because some victims got their freedom and nobody should have issues with that. These women did not join Boko Haram as most of them were abducted and forcibly taken as wives. If however, the claims making the rounds are that the military is releasing Boko Haram fighters who did not go through the process of de-radicalization then I would say it is very unfortunate.”

Recall that the military in 2016 launched Operation Safe Corridor, an initiative for the de-radicalization and rehabilitation of ex-Boko Haram members. The aim of the operation, the military said, is to reintegrate repentant Boko Haram members into society. But while speaking at the North-East Governors’ Forum meeting in Bauchi, Governor Zulum said the initiative needs to be reviewed because some of the ex-Boko Haram members only come to spy on communities and then return to join the group.

“Another aspect of the war against the insurgency that needs to be urgently reviewed or modified is the issue of de-radicalization of Boko Haram terrorists, who have been captured or have willingly surrendered themselves to the authorities. It has been confirmed that the concept of de-radicalization or Safe Corridor is not working as expected. Quite often, those who have passed through the Safe Corridor initiative, or have been de-radicalized, usually go back and rejoin the terror group after carefully studying the various security arrangements in their host communities, during the reintegration process.

“In addition, the host communities where the reintegration process is going on usually resent the presence of Boko Haram terrorists, even if they have been de-radicalized, because of the despicable and atrocious activities they have committed in the past. So the idea of de-radicalization, as currently being implemented, needs to be reviewed because the main goals and the underlying objectives behind the initiative are not being achieved.” Governor Zulum said.

Also In July 2020, some residents of Maiduguri kicked against the reintegration of repentant Boko Haram members into their communities, asking the federal government to take them to Aso Rock. Soldiers at the war front in the northeast had also expressed disappointment over the release of repentant Boko Haram suspects.

Recently about 1,009 ex-Boko Haram insurgents, who had been in military custody at Giwa Barracks in Maiduguri were said to have been released.

NEWSng learned that the former terrorists were handed over to the Borno State Government in a secret ceremony that was initially billed to take place at an earlier date but was suspended indefinitely by the military authorities in the wake of the appointment of the Chief of the Army Staff, Lt Gen Faruk Yahaya.

According to sources in the army, the ex-terrorists were handed over to the Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, Hajiya Zuwaira Gambo, who represented the state government at the event in Maiduguri.

While residents and soldiers fighting the insurgency remain of much concern to issues of releasing Boko Haram fighters by the Nigerian military, the current trading that two terrorist bomb experts were released by the military has generated tension as to the reality of the authorities in the prosecution of the war in northeast Nigeria.

Speaking on the backdrop of these reports, Director Army Public Relations, Brig-Gen. Onyema Nwachukwu said the attention of the Army has been drawn to a publication by some online news medium in which the authors misrepresented the facts contained in that report.

General Nwachukwu said “While the Nigerian Army (NA) does not want to be distracted from its main focus of dealing decisively with the threats against peace-loving Nigerians, it has become necessary to put issues in their right perspectives. It is a fact that in the recent past, over 1,000 members of Boko Haram and their families surrendered to the troops due to the intense pressure from troops’ sustained offensive. Among those were key leaders of the terrorist group who have renounced their membership and have turned themselves in.,” he said.

He stressed that the army, being a professional military organization, will continue to act in accordance with the dictates of the Nigerian Constitution, as well as international best practices.

“It is absolutely wrong to say that the NA will free repentant terrorists. It, therefore, appealed to the public to disregard the deliberate distortion of facts by these online media and continue to support the NA to rid the country of terrorism and other forms of insecurity,” General Nwachukwu said.

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NSCDC personnel brutally attack police inspector in Gombe, inflicting severe injuries

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NSCDC personnel brutally attack police inspector in Gombe, inflicting severe injuries

By: Zagazola Makama

Police in Gombe State have launched a manhunt for two NSCDC personnel involved in a conspiracy and attack on a police inspector.

Zagazola Makama was informed from a reliable sources that on June 15, 2025, at about 2000 hours, Umar Ahmadu, Al’azeez, and Abdulrasheed all members of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) attached to Dukku Road Office in Gombe allegedly attacked Inspector Mohammed Jungudo with a jackknife, inflicting severe injuries in various parts of his body.

The injured Inspector Jungudo is currently receiving treatment at the Federal Teaching Hospital, Gombe, while the suspects remain at large.

Police sources say efforts are underway to arrest the suspects.

NSCDC personnel brutally attack police inspector in Gombe, inflicting severe injuries

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General Buratai: Reports suggesting a Boko Haram attack on the former army chief are inaccurate, deceptive, and maliciously planted by armchair journalists.

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General Buratai

General Buratai: Reports suggesting a Boko Haram attack on the former army chief are inaccurate, deceptive, and maliciously planted by armchair journalists.

By: Dr. James Bwala

Reports alleging that former Army Chief General Tukur Yusuf Buratai came under Boko Haram gunfire attack around Biu town in Borno State, northeast Nigeria, on Friday have been proven to be false, misleading, and irresponsibly propagated by armchair journalists. Such misinformation not only distorts public perception but also undermines efforts toward peace and security in the region. The dissemination of unverified news contributes to unnecessary panic and erodes trust in credible news sources.

It is imperative for journalists and media practitioners to adhere strictly to ethical standards by verifying information before publication. In conflict-prone areas like Borno State, where security concerns are heightened, accuracy in reporting is crucial for both national stability and the safety of individuals involved. The spread of baseless reports about a high-profile figure such as General Buratai can have significant ramifications on public morale and military operations.

The propagation of fake news regarding General Buratai’s alleged encounter with Boko Haram highlights the dangers posed by irresponsible journalism. It underscores the need for rigorous fact-checking and responsible reporting practices to foster informed discourse and maintain societal stability. Media outlets must prioritize integrity and accountability, ensuring that their content contributes positively to public understanding rather than fueling discord and misinformation. 

The responsibility lies with both journalists and consumers of news to critically evaluate sources and demand higher standards of reporting. In doing so, we can collectively work towards a more informed and resilient society, where truth prevails over sensationalism and speculation. By cultivating a culture of critical thinking and media literacy, we can empower individuals to discern fact from fiction and make informed decisions based on reliable information. In this way, the media can play a pivotal role in supporting peace and development, especially in regions affected by conflict and instability.

One of the core values of journalism is upholding journalistic ethics. This is not just a professional obligation but a societal necessity, particularly in areas where misinformation can exacerbate tensions and hinder progress. It is imperative that both media professionals and the public remain vigilant against the allure of sensational headlines, which often prioritize shock value over accuracy. Such vigilance is crucial in preventing the spread of narratives that could potentially incite fear and undermine trust in legitimate sources of information. 

Recent reports have circulated suggesting that former Chief of Army Staff, General T.Y. Buratai, was present in Biu, Borno State, amid ongoing security concerns in Northeast Nigeria. However, these claims are inaccurate. Contrary to such misinformation, General Buratai is currently performing Hajj in the Holy Land and remains hale and hearty. I have personally exchanged Dallas greetings with him, and therefore, this clarification is significant given the sensitivity surrounding his role in counterinsurgency efforts against Boko Haram during his tenure.

READ ALSO: https://newsng.ng/umth-how-professor-ahidjos-transformation-agenda-impacted-the-information-unit/

The dissemination of false information regarding prominent figures like General Buratai can exacerbate confusion and undermine public trust. It is important to rely on verified sources when assessing the whereabouts and health status of key individuals. Despite rumors linking him to recent activities in Borno State, credible fact-checking has confirmed his absence from the region. Thus, this situation underscores the necessity for critical evaluation of social media posts and other informal channels reporting on national security matters. 

In an era where misinformation can spread rapidly through social media platforms, it becomes ever more crucial for individuals to approach such claims with a discerning eye and prioritize information from reliable sources. As we navigate this digital age, the responsibility falls on both media outlets and individuals to ensure that the information shared is factual and not based on unsubstantiated rumors. In this context, verifying claims through established fact-checking organizations becomes indispensable to prevent the escalation of false narratives that can impact national security. Therefore, fostering a culture of media literacy becomes essential in equipping the public to discern between factual reporting and deceptive claims.

Emphasizing media literacy not only helps individuals interpret information accurately but also builds resilience against the manipulation of narratives that could otherwise destabilize societal cohesion. By fostering such literacy, society can better navigate the complexities of information in the digital realm and safeguard against the perils of misinformation that threaten to distort public perception and trust. 

The media, and especially journalists, should promote critical thinking and encourage the use of fact-checking tools. Individuals can actively contribute to a more informed and cohesive society, reducing the potential for misinformation to disrupt public trust and national stability. In this era of rapid information dissemination, the role of responsible journalism and informed public discourse cannot be overstated in countering the spread of misinformation. 

While the reports falsely quote sources that are nonexistent, often referred to as “ghosts,” it is a pernicious practice within journalism that undermines the profession’s integrity. This form of yellow journalism not only distorts truth but also erodes public trust, which is foundational to credible reporting. When armchair journalists fabricate sources, they prioritize sensationalism over accuracy, thereby aligning themselves with unethical practices condemned by journalistic standards. Such actions betray the noble mission of journalism: to inform society with factual and verifiable information.

* James Bwala, PhD, writes from Abuja.

General Buratai: Reports suggesting a Boko Haram attack on the former army chief are inaccurate, deceptive, and maliciously planted by armchair journalists.

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Protest: NHRC Asks Security Agencies to Provide Adequate Protection for Protesters

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By: Michael Mike

The National Human Right Commission has urged security agencies to provide adequate protection for individuals exercising their right to protest.

The advised was given on Monday in Abuja, following Twarnings by the government and security agencies against the planned protest against hardship by Civil Society Organisations.

Speaking at a press conference, the Executive Secretary of NHRC, Dr. Tony Ojukwu, also urged the Federal government to provide adequate security for the journalists that would be covering the protest.

Ojukwu asked the Federal Government to put in place a mechanism to hold security agencies accountable for any abuses committed during protests and warmed against any form of barriers during the protest.

He advised protesters to carry out their protest within the ambit of the law.

He said: “We call on the federal and state government to ensure that the October protests are peaceful and that the protesters are given the necessary support and leverage to conduct themselves in civilized manner, including protecting them from counter-protesters and mobs.”
He also added that both federal and state government and their institutions are obliged to facilitate peaceful assemblies.

“This includes ensuring safety, providing necessary infrastructure, and taking measures to prevent disruptions from counter-demonstrators or hostile forces.
“Government should provide adequate protection for protesters against violence or intimidation as well as facilitate peaceful assemblies through appropriate measures.

“Government must put in place effective Accountability Mechanisms for holding the law enforcement and security agencies accountable for any abuses committed during protests. This includes investigating incidents where excessive force was used or where protesters were unlawfully detained.

“Government must deploy its apparatus for the protection of private and public properties as well as the lives of protesters and non-protesters before, during and after the protests.”

He insisted that the right to peaceful assembly is a fundamental human right recognized internationally, regionally, and at national level.

He noted that “In Nigeria, this right is enshrined in Section 40 of the 1999 Constitution of Nigeria as amended and further strengthened by international and regional human rights instruments. Section 40 provides that: “Every person shall be entitled to assemble freely and associate with other persons, and in particular, he may form or belong to any political party, trade union or any other association for the protection of his interests.

“Furthermore, article 11 of the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights (ACHPR) provides that “Every individual shall have the right to assemble freely with others.

“The right to peaceful assembly is the cornerstone stone of our liberty and an essential instrument for promoting the values of democracy and good governance. Protests are legitimate means of voicing dissatisfactions and participating in shaping citizen-centred governance and development outcomes.”

He stressed that the African Commission on Human and Peoples’ Rights and the Human Rights Council have put in place a set of principles which should guide the promotion and protection of the right to peaceful assembly.

The principles he said include: “Non-discrimination: All individuals should be able to exercise their rights to peaceful assembly without discrimination based on race, gender, political affiliation, or any other status.

“Legitimate Restrictions: While freedom of association and assembly is fundamental, it can be subject to restrictions. However, such restrictions must be lawful, necessary in a democratic society, and proportionate to the aim pursued. This means that any limitations imposed by Nigerian authorities must not infringe upon the essence of these rights.

“Protection from Violence: The state has an obligation to protect individuals exercising their rights from violence or intimidation by third parties. This includes ensuring that protests can occur without fear of repression, prosecution or violent backlash.

“Notification Requirements: Requirements for pre-notification of law enforcement should not serve as barriers but rather facilitate peaceful protests. Notification requirement should not be burdensome and not hinder the exercise of this right.

“Use of Force: Any use of force by law enforcement during protests must adhere strictly to principles of necessity and proportionality. Excessive use of force against protesters, including shooting or the deployment of tear gas is a violation of human rights and dignity.”

He said: “Exercise your right to peaceful protest within the ambits of the law, be very civil and respect the rights of others.
“Avoid violence, destruction of property, and harmful behaviour, this is detrimental to nation building, the destruction caused may take fortune to regain which will be a great set back to our development.

“Cooperate with law enforcement agencies to ensure public safety by conducting yourselves with highest sense of modesty and civility.

“Refrain from hate speech and divisive rhetoric, abusive words and foul language.
“Respect the rights of others, including those who may hold differing opinions, that is the beauty of democracy.

“Ensure that your actions do not infringe on the rights of non-protesters, as everybody must not be on the street protesting.

He promised that the NHRC will be monitoring the protests across Nigeria and will ensure that state and non-state actors violating the right to protests and other associated human rights will be held accountable.

For the security operatives, Ojukwu urged them to “Respect the rights of protesters to peaceful assembly and expression as enshrined in the 1999 Constitution and other Regional and International Instruments that Nigeria is a Party to.

“Avoid excessive force and ensure proportionate response to situations, do no harm and do not force the protesters to react in a manner that is riotious.
“Protect journalists and media personnel from harassment, allow them to carry out their duties as the fourth arm of the government and as enshrined in the constitution.

“Facilitate dialogue between protesters and relevant stakeholders, this will rather assist you in discharging your role seamlessly, do not look at them as your enemies.
“Ensure that arrests and detentions are carried out in accordance with the law and not because you merely want to deal with people.

“Provide necessary assistance and support to vulnerable individuals, do not overlook any opportunity to render help.”

Protest: NHRC Asks Security Agencies to Provide Adequate Protection for Protesters

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