Army Distances Self From Planned Celebration Of Victory Against Boko Haram

BEVERLY HILLS, April 21, (THEWILL) – The Nigerian Army has distanced itself from the rallies being organized by some individuals and groups to celebrate its successes against Boko Haram terrorists in the North-East, warning that such solidarity rallies can constitute a distraction to soldiers.

This was contained in a statement issued on Thursday by the acting Director, Army Public Relations, Col. Sani Usman in Maiduguri, the Borno State capital, which acknowledged that the initiative of the civil groups could be borne out of sheer patriotism.

According to the statement, “The attention of the Nigerian Army has been drawn to a number of groups and individuals celebrating the routing out and decimation of Boko Haram terrorists on our soil.

“So much as we thank them for that, it is imperative to state that we do not begrudge such persons their desire to identify and associate themselves with this success.

“However, the Nigerian Army wishes to disassociate itself from such celebrations and solidarity rallies.”

The Army spokesman continued: “We also would like to advise that they should tread with caution as this could be distractive to us.

“The public are please informed that the terrorists are surreptitiously fanning out of their last enclaves in Sambisa to cause havoc or seek refuge elsewhere.”

While advising members of the public to remain vigilant, as remnants of the terrorists were fleeing in all directions, Usman said: “We would like to reassure the public that we will remain professional and focused in clearing the remnants of these criminals on the Nigerian soil.”