By Omowumi Omotosho
The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) says it will annihilate the terrorists behind recent attacks in Gwoza LGA of Borno state.
Edward Buba, director of defence media operations, said this in a statement issued on Tuesday in Abuja.
On Saturday, suicide bombers detonated improvised explosive devices (IEDs) in different parts of Borno. 32 people have been confirmed dead from the explosions.
A curfew has since been imposed on Gwoza over suspicion of another attack.
“The fate of the terrorists that perpetrated these insecurity will be violent and short as troops will stop at nothing to take them out of the battlefield,” Buba said.
He added that recent operations have severely weakened terrorist groups, their leadership, resources, and support base.
He said the terrorists targeted innocent civilians in a desperate bid to mask their vulnerability and project a false sense of power.
“Citizens must see through the smokescreen of the terrorists. We must realise that the terrorists aim to counter the reports of their weakness and create panic in the general population,” he said.
“The military is aware that in this phase of their ending life-cycle, the terrorists are desperate to attract attention, bolster relevancy, mobilise new recruits, reduce support for the armed forces and reduce support for the government.
“Accordingly, we call on citizens to stand united, remain vigilant, and continue to support efforts of the armed forces to ensure a secure and peaceful future.”
The director described the bombings as a “national tragedy”.
“The armed forces views every life lost as a result of the ongoing war, whether civilian or military, as an immense tragedy,” Buba added.
“The sad loss of lives are a tragedy for the society, community and the nation.
“Accordingly, on behalf of the Chief of Defence Staff, Gen Christopher Musa, officers and members of the armed forces, we express our condolences even as we mourn with all who have lost loved ones.
“We also commiserate with all victims needing healing and recovery.”
