The Defence Headquarters, DHQ, says all is being done by the armed forces to end terrorism and insecurity in the country.
The DHQ gave the assurance on Thursday in Abuja while briefing journalists on the ongoing military operations in the country, saying the military will not relent in its effort to make the country safe for the citizens.
Vowing to “destroy the cancer of terrorism” the armed forces said insurgency has made life unbearable for Nigerians, particularly in the north and the south east, urging Nigerians to provide information to assist security forces on their job.
Security forces have come under severe criticism form many Nigerians in the light of the killings in Plateau state recently.
On December 24, close to 200 persons were massacred by unknown gunmen who also left destroyed houses in their wake after attacking many villages in the state.
The suspected terrorists would return on Wednesday, January 24 to unleash mayhem in the state killing over 30 persons, leaving many other residents injured.
Not a few Nigerians have blamed the repeated attack on the slow response of the security forces fighting terrorists in the area.
But the military said its job has been made difficult by the failure by residents to provide information which can assist the military to root out the menace on terrorism.
They however assured that terrorists would be rooted out from the country in a matter of time.
Major Gen Edward Buba, the Director Media Operations, DMO, Major General Edward Buba who addressed journalists said the military is not unaware of the enormous responsibility of safeguarding the citizens.
He said: “Indeed, we may not have all the answers now. However, we assure citizens that we are working assiduously to address the situation both in the immediate and long term to ensure the safety of lives and property. We are redoubling our efforts to ensure citizens live in a peaceful environment and have a prosperous life. This is achievable and we are focused on achieving it.
“The armed forces would destroy the cancer of terrorism that is ravaging our country thereby creating situations such as is ongoing in the Plateau State. The situation of insecurity that we are confronted with is self-inflicted by our own citizens upon one another. Nevertheless, It is our duty to protect citizens and create a safe environment for them to have a prosperous future.
“We do not take lightly the privilege and enormous responsibility of safeguarding our citizens. It is for this reason that, we constantly rejig our operational strategies in order to adopt the best course of action that would make these ugly experiences a thing of the past.
“Accordingly, we have deployed special forces to some of the hotspots in order to conduct targeted operations. We have also deployed several battlefield enablers to enhance intelligence and strike capability on these terrorists. We are encouraging the warring fractions to shield their swords.
“As for the FCT and environs, offensive operations are ongoing at the following locations; Cashew Forest, Kwaku, Gwombe, Gadoro and Tukuba all in Kuje Area Council. Other areas covered were Kawu, Igu, Tokulo, Gaba, Zuma 1 and Zuma 2, Shere, Mpape, Jikoko, Berger Quarry and Nukuchi Villages all in Bwari Area Council of FCT.
“In neighbouring states to the FCT such as Niger State. Troops are conducting operations in; Gauraka, Apo Forest, Gyedna/Sabon Wusa and Garam in Tafa LGA of Niger State. Additionally, troops covered Numan and Basa in Akwanga and Nasarawa LGAs of Nasarawa State respectively.
“As for the situation in the North Central, tension broke out in MANGU in the early hours of 23 Jan 24. The situation escalated and resulted in the breakdown of law and order in MANGU Town and adjoining communities. The crisis which started from GANGARAN KWATA escalated to other parts of MANGU LGA despite concerted efforts by troops deployed to the general area to restore normalcy,” Buba said.
