By Omowumi Omotosho
In a recent military operation, the Nigerian Army has apprehended 12 individuals linked to terrorist activities reportedly orchestrated by a breakaway Boko Haram faction known as ‘Mahmuda.’ This faction is believed to have established a presence within the Kainji Lake National Park.
Recall that the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede, had earlier issued a 30-day ultimatum to troops to eliminate the presence of armed criminals in the area. In response, the 2 Division of the Nigerian Army swiftly mobilized forces to carry out extensive operations across border towns in Kwara and Niger States, including thorough sweeps of the Kainji Lake forest, targeting insurgents threatening the lives of innocent Nigerians.
According to military sources, the group has been responsible for a wave of violence—ranging from killings and maimings to the intimidation and exploitation of residents in communities bordering the park. These include areas within Baruten and Kaiama local government areas of Kwara State and parts of Borgu in Niger State.
The General Officer Commanding (GOC) 2 Division, Major General Obinna Onubogu, made the announcement during a recent visit to military formations in Kaiama and Baruten. The visit was aimed at assessing the welfare of troops and reviewing the progress of ongoing counter-terrorism operations.
During the crackdown, soldiers arrested 12 individuals from different locations in and around the national park and nearby border settlements.
Two of those arrested were said to be confirmed members of the armed bandit group, while others are alleged accomplices in the criminal acts.
“The counterinsurgency operation code-named ‘Park Strike Four’ is meant to, among other things, flush out the bandits and clear the Kainji Lake National Park of all criminal tendencies,” he stated.
The GOC informed journalists accompanying him that the troops involved in the mission remain fully committed and relentless in their efforts to reclaim the national park and restore a sense of security and confidence among the local communities.
He said, “Through the raid operations, the troops have successfully combed a distance of at least 90 kilometres from Kemanji into the Kanji forest where its firm base is currently situated.”
During his trip, the GOC, who said the mission is already being accomplished, added that “both the men and officers have succeeded in dislodging the bandits and other criminal elements.”
After interacting with the troops, General Onubogu visited the Emir of Kaiama, Alhaji Muazu Sheu Omar, and the Head of the Kemanji Community, known as Shao’ki, Aliyu Siki-Muhammed, where he raised the hopes of the locals, boosted their morale, and restored their confidence.
