Army Begins Massive Offensive Against Insurgents In Benue,Nasarawa.Plateau

The Nigerian Army Monday commenced a major operation to put an end to the activities of all armed men and criminal gangs who have been engaging in the wanton killing and destruction of lives and property in the three North-central states. 

The Director of Defence Information (DDI), Maj-Gen. Chris Olukolade in a statement said troops had already been deployed for a major offensive which is covering Benue, Nassarawa and Plateau States.

According to Olukolade, the internal security operations is meant to capture and neutralise all the enclaves of criminal gangs.

He said the Nigerian Air Force (NAF), police and other security agencies are also participating in the operation designed to restore peace in the affected states.
"Law abiding citizens are enjoined to cooperate by providing timely and useful information to facilitate the operation as it affects their localities," he said.

Concerning the situation in Sambisa forest, Olukolade noted that despite the heavy casualty inflicted on the terrorists, troops of the units involved in the advance, on discovering another set, called for additional fire support to enable them finish the mission in record time.

Responding to enquiries, the DDI further clarified that "what was erroneously described in the said report as mutiny was a mere exchange of ideas among troops and their commander which is usual in operations.

"In fact, their conduct is considered to be an acceptable demonstration of enthusiasm, high morale and required fighting spirit."

However, Olukolade added most of those earlier reported missing had actually rejoined the unit and are participating in the resumed advance to their assigned objective in the campaign.
"There is no mutiny in the unit as reported.  Indeed, mutiny is a very serious offence that is never condoned under any circumstances in the military.

"Please don’t insinuate it here.  It will be unfair to the troops and their unit," he urged.