“We won’t let terrorists intimidate our people” — Army commander in Sokoto

The General Officer Commanding, 8 Division, Nigerian Army, Major General Bemgba Koughna, has visited Kebbe Local Government Area of Sokoto State following renewed security concerns linked to the Lakurawa terrorist group, assuring residents that troops remain ready to prevent further attacks and protect lives and property.

The visit was disclosed in a statement issued on Sunday by the Acting Deputy Director, Army Public Relations, 8 Division, Nigerian Army and Sector 2, Operation FANSAN YAMMA, Lieutenant Colonel Olaniyi Osoba.

Mr Koughna’s visit came amid reports of a renewed attack on Ungushi community and heightened security concerns along the Sokoto-Kebbi border, where residents have reportedly fled some affected communities following attacks and livestock rustling.

Army assesses security situation in Kebbe

Mr Koughna conducted an operational assessment of the Forward Operating Base, Kebbe, and surrounding communities to review the security situation and the Army’s response to the reported terrorist threats.

He also met community leaders and residents, listened to their concerns and assessed the challenges confronting the area.

The Army commander assured residents that the military had adjusted its security architecture to prevent further infiltration by terrorists and protect vulnerable communities.

“Troops remain fully deployed, highly alert and operationally focused on protecting lives and property,” he said.

He added that measures had been put in place to ensure emerging threats were quickly identified and contained before they could escalate.

“The Nigerian Army remains unwavering in its determination to respond swiftly and decisively to any emerging threats,” Mr Koughna said.

He further assured residents that terrorist elements would not be allowed to establish safe havens in Kebbe and surrounding communities.

“We will continue to maintain a robust presence in this area and ensure that our troops remain ready to respond to any threat to the peace and security of the people,” he said.

Residents urged to remain calm

The renewed security concerns have raised fears among residents, particularly following reports of attacks and livestock rustling around communities close to the Sokoto-Kebbi border.

Mr Koughna urged residents not to panic, assuring them that security forces remained firmly on the ground.

“I urge you to remain calm and continue with your lawful activities. Your security remains our priority, and we will continue to do everything within our mandate to protect you,” he said.

For residents, the security situation goes beyond the threat of attacks. Continued insecurity can disrupt farming, trading, livestock activities and movement, while forcing families to abandon their homes and sources of livelihood.

The Army therefore said it was committed to restoring confidence and ensuring that criminal and terrorist groups could not disrupt the daily lives of residents.

Army seeks stronger community intelligence

Mr Koughna called for stronger collaboration between the military and communities, particularly through the timely provision of credible intelligence.

“Community support remains a critical component in detecting, disrupting and dismantling terrorist networks before they can launch attacks,” he said.

He urged community leaders and residents to promptly report suspicious movements, unfamiliar persons and other activities that could pose a security threat.

The GOC stressed that effective intelligence-sharing between residents and security agencies remained essential to preventing attacks and denying criminal and terrorist groups freedom of movement.

Troops pledge continued readiness

The Army chief reiterated the commitment of troops to protecting lives, property and critical infrastructure in Kebbe and other vulnerable communities within the operational area.

“We will not allow criminal elements to intimidate our people or disrupt their livelihoods. Our troops are prepared and will continue to operate with determination and professionalism,” he said.

The operational assessment forms part of ongoing efforts to strengthen security around Kebbe and other vulnerable communities following recent security incidents.

The development also places renewed focus on the importance of military readiness, community vigilance and intelligence-sharing in preventing further attacks and protecting the livelihoods of residents in the affected communities.