The Chief of Army Staff, COAS, Ibrahim Attahiru, has given 48-hour ultimatum to the troops of Operation Lafiya Dole to recapture Marte Local Government Area of Borno State.
Recall that on Friday, the Boko Haram insurgents had reportedly foisted their flag at Marte area after killing seven troops of the153rd Task Force Battalion in an ambush.
On the same Friday, the insurgents attacked neighbouring Dikwa Local Government Area but were repelled by a combined effort of the air component and ground forces of Operation Lafiya Dole in a battle that lasted hours.
Addressing troops of the Nigerian Army Super Camp 9, Dikwa on Sunday, Mr Attahiru also directed the troops to clear Kirenowa, Kirta, Wulgo, Chikingudo communities of Marte and Ngala local government areas of the state.
He said: “Areas around Marte, Chikingudu, Wulgo Kirenowa and Kirta must be cleared in the next 48 hours. You should be rest assured of all support you require in this very onerous task.
“I have just spoken to the Theater Commander, and the General Officer Commanding 7 Division, you must not let this nation down. Go back and do the needful and I will be right behind you.
“You are aware of the recent attack on Dikwa and Marte, you should not allow this to happen again. Go after them and clear these bastards,” Mr Attahiru stressed.
The COAS, however, commended the efforts of the troops in the fight against the insurgents.
“I am here to deliver the greetings of Mr President and Commander-In-Chief of the Armed Forces, Muhammadu Buahri.
“I have spoken with your Commanders, we are going to provide you the equipment and weapons you need to end this war.
“We are also going to address the issue of over stay in the theater. No more issue of over stay,” Mr Attahiru added.
