By Modupe Gbadeyanka
The Nigerian Army on Thursday reacted to a video purportedly released by leader of Boko Haram, Mr Abubakar Shekau, alleging that the Nigerian government’s claims that it chased them out of their stronghold in Sambisa Forest few days ago was a pure lie.
On Thursday, Mr Shekau released a 25-minute video claiming he and his men were still in the forest.
But in a swift reaction, the Army described Mr Shekau’s claims as “spurious” and “mere propaganda aimed at creating fear in the mind of people and to remain relevant.”
“While effort is ongoing to subject the video for further forensic analysis, the Nigerian Army wishes to reiterate that it has captured and occupied the last known stronghold of the terrorists group in the Sambisa forest,” a statement signed by the Acting Director Army Public Relations, Brigadier General Sani Kukasheka Usman said.
The Army assured Nigerians that “there is no cause for alarm, more so as concerted effort in clearing the vestiges of Boko Haram terrorists wherever they might be hiding is still ongoing.”
“Our gallant troops deployed in various parts of the north east have continued to intensify search for all persons associated with Boko Haram terrorist group with a view to bring them to justice.
“Consequently, the public are hereby enjoined to go about their normal lawful business, remain vigilant and security conscious.
“They should also report any suspicious person or group of persons to security agencies,” the statement further said.