The Chief of Army Staff, Tukur Buratai has urged Nigerians to stop giving undue attention and publicity to the remnants of the Boko Haram terrorist group in the country.
Sagir Musa, the acting Director Army Public Relations, Nigerian Army headquarters quoted Mr Buratai as saying so on Friday at a press briefing in Operation Lafiya Dole Headquarters Maimalari Cantonment Maiduguri, Borno State.
“The Chief of Army Staff noted with great concern the increased propaganda and undue publicity given to the remnants of the erstwhile Boko Haram terrorists group by some people.
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“This worrisome development has further boosted the image of the criminal gang thus assuming larger than life status,” Mr Musa quoted Mr Buratai as saying so while visiting troops in the North East.
He pointed out that, “it is wrong for any person to eulogize or support murderers, bandits and armed robbers that the known Boko Haram terrorist group has turned into.”
According to Mr Buratai, the mode of operation of these elements, is pure criminality for personal gains.
“It is common knowledge that the criminals no longer pretend to be championing any cause other than quest for materialism as manifested in murder and terror on hapless people,” Mr Buratai said.
He, therefore, called on the peace-loving Nigerians to stop glorifying these criminals and not to call them by any name other than “criminals,” “rapists,” “kidnappers” “armed robbers” and “murderers.”
“Unfortunately, many Nigerians are not aware that giving prominence to the criminal activities of the terrorists group through sensational headlines and fake news in both electronic and print media could also amount to tacit support to terrorism which violates the Terrorism Prevention Act 2011.
“It is therefore important that all Nigerians to rally round our gallant troops as they fight these criminals.
“All should know that the support to the efforts of the Armed Forces Of Nigeria in the counter terrorism efforts would boost their morale and it will be highly appreciated.
“The Nigerian Army is asking for the continued understanding and cooperation of all Nigerians and well-meaning people,” he said.
