Nigerian Military Intensifies Operations Against Terrorism and Oil Theft, Warns Against Violent Protests

By Emmanuel Daudu

The Nigerian military has reported significant progress in its ongoing multi-front operations aimed at dismantling terrorist groups and their networks across the country.

In a press statement by Major General Edward Buba, Director of Defence Media Operations, he outlined the achievements and future plans .

According to the statement, the military’s current focus is on eliminating the leadership, commanders, and foot soldiers of terrorist organizations.

This effort has led to the neutralization of 106 terrorists and the arrest of 164 others in the past week.

Additionally, troops rescued 103 kidnapped hostages and apprehended 32 individuals involved in oil theft.

In terms of equipment seizures, the military has recovered 125 assorted weapons, including 41 AK47 rifles, and 1,522 rounds of ammunition. Other confiscated items include 22 vehicles, 31 motorcycles, 10 mobile phones, and cash amounting to N2,956,000.

He disclosed that inorder to combat crude oil theft, a unified command structure has been established in the Niger Delta. The military has destroyed 20 dugout pits, 24 boats, and 34 storage tanks used for illegal activities.

Troops also recovered over 800,000 litres of stolen crude oil and 121,900 litres of illegally refined AGO.

Major General Buba emphasized the importance of community and stakeholder support in the oil sector to enhance surveillance and ensure that culprits are prosecuted.

The military also addressed the planned nationwide protest, highlighting potential risks of violence and anarchy.

Major General Buba urged Nigerians to be cautious, noting that some elements might exploit the protest to incite violence.

The military stressed that while peaceful protests are a constitutional right, any attempt to incite violence will not be tolerated.

“Given the situation, there are indicators that unscrupulous elements are bent on hijacking the planned protest for violent purposes,” said Major General Buba.

He warned that any escalation of violence could lead to a state of anarchy, which the military is prepared to prevent.

He reiterated that the Nigerian military remains committed to maintaining security and stability across the country.

He encouraged citizens to support these efforts and work towards peaceful resolutions to current challenges.