No ceasefire with Boko Haram, others – Military

The military has dismissed allegations of a ceasefire agreement with Boko Haram, the Islamic State West Africa Province, and other criminal factions in Nigeria. It emphasized that ongoing operations against these groups will persist across the country, as their retreat from hideouts has been evident. The denial arose after a report claimed the Federal Government had secretly reached a ceasefire deal with a Boko Haram faction led by Bakura Doro, resulting in relative peace in parts of the North-East for three months.

The report, based on three sources with contacts among senior Boko Haram members, suggested the truce had been in effect since June and could be extended. The Director of Defence Information, Samaila Uba, addressed the rumors during a joint security briefing in Abuja. Uba firmly stated there was no ceasefire, highlighting the military's continuous pressure on armed groups through successful operations.

He cited the neutralization of terrorists, arrests of suspects, and rescue of kidnapped victims as proof of the military's unwavering commitment. The defence spokesman warned that criminal elements would either face military action or face justice. Uba also addressed reports of insurgents moving into less-active areas, stating these developments were a result of ongoing military efforts, but the Armed Forces remained vigilant and working to prevent insurgents from establishing new bases.

He highlighted recent achievements, including 588 security operations conducted in September and October, with 435 terrorists, bandits, and high-ranking commanders neutralized, 809 suspects arrested, 198 insurgents surrendering, and 717 kidnapped victims liberated.