contrary to media reports that over 2,000 were killed in Baga Borno
state last week, that from all available evidences, the number has so
far not exceeded 150 people. Read their statement after the cut...
Gentlemen of the press,As you might be aware, there was another terror
attack on the town of Baga in Borno state last week which left a
number of people dead. Following that unfortunate attack, a lot of
speculations and conjectures have been peddled by a section of the
press particularly the on-line media regarding the casualty rate.
Some claimed that over a thousand people were killed while others
wrote with certainty that 2000 people lost their lives in that
singular attack. Without any doubt, terrible atrocities have been
committed against innocent Nigerians in Baga by the rampaging
terrorists who attacked and have been operating in the town since 3
January 2015. Necessary actions are being taken to put an end to the
activities of the terrorists and restore law and order to the
community.To this end, a lot of covert operations including
surveillance activities which recorded series aerial photographs are
ongoing in that vicinity.
It is however necessary to inform Nigerians in the interim that the
exercise so far have not corroborated the report on the casualty rate
which was put at2000 deaths. From all available evidences, the number
of people who lost their lives during that attack has so far not
exceeded about 150 in the interim.This figure includes many of the
terrorists who were bearing arms and got killed in the course of their
attack and battle with troops. It should be noted that Baga and the
neighboring towns have been under series of attacks and harassment by
terrorists. In the course of this, many residents have left, leaving
the population in the town almost seriously depleted. Many were also
able to escape while the terrorists' battle with troops lasted. The
figure given by sources who claim to be eye witnesses must be an
extremely exaggerated estimate. Unfortunately, this figure is now
being bandied about in a section of the media as if it has been
authenticated. It cannot be true.
It is pertinent to once again urge the media to be circumspect in
adopting casualty figures especially the ones given to them by the
so-called eye witness, who in most cases, are influenced by their own
perspectives. In any case, this is no time to debate about casualty
figures or number of deaths as the life of any Nigerian is important.
Much as the intention which could be with the aim of drawing attention
to the atrocities being committed by terrorists group in Nigeria, is
most welcome, the need for factual presentation of the situation is
equally vital. In case the aim of this misinformation is to further
the design of those bent on discrediting the government and the
military, all well-meaning people should consider it as a disservice
to humanity.It is important to remind those who are adept at spewing
falsehood or exaggerating situations with intent to embolden the
terrorists and diminish the efforts of the security forces, that their
actions are inimical to the safety of the innocent Nigerians who have
borne the brunt of the terrorist attacks inour country.
The tendency to celebrate the occasional setbacks while downplaying
the efforts and successes at containing the terrorists is unfair and
very unfortunate.It is noteworthy that many international bodies are
being misled in their interpretation of the situation owing to
sensational headlines and stories. The Defence Headquarterswishes to
reiterate its earlier assurance that the military hasnot given up on
Baga or any part of the country where terrorists are marauding.
Appropriate plans, men and resources are presently being mobilized to
address the situation. We want reassure Nigerians that no portion of
Nigeria's territory has been or will be conceded to terrorists
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