The Nigerian Army has described the latest video released by Boko Haram
leader, Abubakar Shekau, as nothing but a propaganda tool, sign of
desperation and insanity. The Army’s response was contained in a press
statement signed by Colonel Sani K. Usman, acting Director of Army Public
Relations.
In the video, released on Sunday, the Army said Shekau made
characteristically “insane” assertions. The terrorist, added the Army,
threatened various towns, groups and individuals as well as denied the
fact that he was wounded in an air raid by the Nigerian Air Force.
“The video has shown beyond all reasonable doubt the earlier suspicion
that the purported factional terrorists’ group leader is mentally sick and
unstable.
“The ranting is also another sign that the end is near for him which is
part of the signs of all wicked people,” the Army said.
The Nigerian Army explained that the facts on the ground show that the
military has been making concerted efforts to clear the remnants of the
terrorists and rescue all persons held hostage by them, especially the
abducted Chibok Secondary School girls. The Army disclosed that thousands
of persons have been rescued from the terrorists by troops.
The video, further explained the Army, has further shown that Shekau no
longer practices Islam, as he was absent at the last Eid prayers video.
The Army added that he was also unable to even lead prayers and advised
Nigerians not to be fooled by Shekau.
“No nation or society would believe him or any Boko Haram terrorist based
on his antecedents and as he has shown over time to be irrational and
therefore unreliable, especially when it comes to negotiations on the
release of the abducted girls. Therefore he must release them
unconditionally,” the Army stated.
The Army also assured Nigerians, especially residents of Maiduguri, Kano,
Kaduna and Zaria, of their safety it is capable of protecting them from
attacks by Boko Haram the remnants.
“We would like to reiterate that Boko Haram terrorism, as it was known, is
gone for good. We are just counting down to the day when all the few
remnants will be totally wiped out or brought to justice. However, a
window still exists for the repentant ones among them to lay down their
arms and surrender to justice,” the statement concluded.