The Defence Headquarters has rejected claims that the Federal Government agreed to a ceasefire with Boko Haram, Islamic State West Africa Province or other armed groups, saying military operations will continue nationwide.
The denial follows reports of a secret truce with a Boko Haram faction led by Bakura Doro. The reported agreement was said to have been in place since June and linked to a period of relative calm in parts of the North East.
Speaking at a security briefing in Abuja, Defence Information Director Major General Samaila Uba said there was no ceasefire. He pointed to recent military operations, including the killing of armed fighters, arrests and the rescue of kidnapped people, as evidence that troops were maintaining pressure on the groups.
Uba said operations target not only Boko Haram and ISWAP, but also kidnappers and other armed groups threatening civilians. He added that the military was tracking areas where insurgents may have moved to prevent them from setting up new bases. Recent changes to the Armed Forces’ structure, including new formations and units, are also intended to strengthen security in vulnerable areas.
According to Uba, troops carried out 588 operations in September and October, neutralising 435 terrorists and bandits and arresting 809 suspects. A further 198 insurgents surrendered, while 717 kidnapped people and captives were freed.
Those rescued included 20 prospective National Youth Service Corps members in Owerri, Imo State, and 11 people in Danko Wasagu, Kebbi State. Uba also cited operations in Buniyadi, Baga, Kukawa, Bittai and Owo Forest as major blows to armed groups.
Troops recovered 5,666 weapons, rounds of ammunition, explosives and improvised explosive devices, along with logistical supplies, he said. Uba added that the military would keep working to prevent armed groups from gaining a foothold or expanding into other parts of the country.
