By Chimezie Godfrey
The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has faulted a report by an online medium which it said misrepresented the remarks of the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Olufemi Oluyede, on the fight against terrorism in Borno and Yobe states.
In a statement issued on Thursday, the Director, Defence Information, Major General Samaila Uba, said the report was misleading and capable of misinforming the public.
“Ordinarily, the Defence Headquarters would not dignify such distortions with a response. However, in view of the potential to misinform the public and undermine ongoing counterterrorism efforts, it has become necessary to set the record straight,” he said.
Uba clarified that the CDS did not at any time accuse the people of Borno and Yobe states of complicity in terrorism.
“At no time did the CDS indict or generalize that the good people of Borno and Yobe States are complicit in terrorism, as falsely portrayed. Rather, the CDS emphasized the critical role of community partnership, vigilance and collective responsibility in addressing the evolving security challenges facing the nation,” he stated.
Quoting the CDS, the statement said: “the fight against terrorism is not the responsibility of the military alone. It is a collective duty. The people of Borno and Yobe must reject terrorism in all its forms and actively support security agencies with credible and timely information.”
The DHQ explained that the CDS’ call for residents to “take ownership” of the fight against terrorism aligns with global counterinsurgency practices.
It added that the CDS referenced instances where criminal elements exploit community structures, citing a case where wounded terrorists were found within a community after attacking troops.
“Our people must resolve that this has to come to an end,” the CDS was quoted as saying.
The DHQ stressed that the remark was not a blanket accusation but a call for vigilance and cooperation.
It reaffirmed the commitment of the Armed Forces of Nigeria to protecting the country’s territorial integrity and citizens, noting ongoing successes in military operations.
The DHQ also urged media organisations to verify facts and avoid sensational reporting.
“We deeply appreciate the resilience, cooperation and sacrifices of the people of Borno, Yobe and indeed all Nigerians in the collective fight against terrorism… Together we shall overcome the enemies of our nation,” the statement added.