The chief of army staff, COAS, Gen. Tukur Buratai, used the occasion to caution citizens who continue to refer to bandits, kidnappers and murderers as Boko haram terrorists , saying they will be considered as people supporting or encouraging terrorism.
Gen.Tukur Buratai,was in Maiduguri, the Borno State capital on Friday, on receipt of the information that some soldiers were killed during an ambush by suspected Boko Haram Terrorists in Nothern Borno where ISWAP is reportedly operating.
Adding that,“it is also important to note that 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 the quest for materialism as manifested in murder and terror on helpless people.”
General Tukur Buratai, urged the media to be wary of the kind of news headlines in print and electronic media, saying that some of the news headlines on bandits attacks could amount to supporting terrorism pointing out that such act negates the laws of Nigeria.
“I urged the media to note, giving the criminal activities of the terrorists, headlines, news cover in both electronic and print media will also amount to supporting terrorism which violates the terrorism prevention act.
“From the mode of operations of these elements, it’s pure criminality . We should not glorify these criminals, we should not call them any name other than Criminals, Marauders, Rapist , Kidnappers Armed robbers and Murderers. “COAS said .
He equally urged 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.
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