Reps hail DHQ as troops rescue many abductees, kill terrorists’ commanders

Members of Nigeria's House of Representatives have praised the Defence Headquarters, led by General Olufemi Olatunbosun Oluyede, for their efforts in rescuing kidnapped victims and eliminating terrorist commanders across the country. The lawmakers' commendation follows an increase in military operations and strong collaboration among security agencies.

Daily Trust reports that frontline troops in various regions have successfully neutralized terrorists, rescued 777 victims, and captured 354 suspects during the recent operations. The Deputy Spokesperson for the House, Philip Agbese, stated that the Nigerian Armed Forces have gone beyond rhetoric and are now actively challenging terrorist networks.

The recent operations yielded impressive results, with the Defence Headquarters reporting the neutralization of 1,487 terrorists, the rescue of 777 victims, and the arrest of 354 suspects. Additionally, 91 firearms, 1,331 rounds of ammunition, and 44 improvised explosive devices were recovered. In the North-East, Operation Hadin Kai focused on combating Boko Haram and Islamic State West Africa Province elements, resulting in the neutralization of 114 terrorists, the arrest of 146 suspects, and the rescue of 60 victims.

The Chief of Army Staff, Lt.-Gen. Waidi Shaibu, highlighted the changing nature of military operations, emphasizing the importance of intelligence gathering, air strikes, ground offensives, and inter-agency coordination. Agbese urged Nigerians to provide credible information to security agencies, stressing that community intelligence is crucial for identifying terrorist hideouts, logistics suppliers, and collaborators.

He also emphasized the significance of cooperation among security agencies and federal, state, and local authorities in addressing security threats.