The Defence Headquarters announced on Saturday a significant advancement in the ongoing struggle against terrorism with the apprehension of a notorious terrorist leader, Abubakar Bawa Ibrahim, who is also known as Habu Dogo. This operation took place in the Northwest region of Nigeria.
Dogo is reportedly linked to numerous attacks, killings, and kidnappings in Sokoto State, and was captured by troops in Rumji Village, located within the Illela Local Government Area of Sokoto.
In a detailed statement, Major General Edward Buba, the Director of Defence Media Operations, revealed that Dogo was a high-priority target for security forces in both Nigeria and the Niger Republic, primarily due to his involvement in cross-border criminal activities that pose a significant threat to the stability of the region.
Furthermore, the Defence Headquarters also reported the arrest of seven commanders and operatives affiliated with the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and its armed faction, the Eastern Security Network (ESN), in the Southeast. The individuals detained during various operations include Dr. Nnamdi Chukwudoze, Chigozie Ezetoha (alias Chapet), Ngozi Chukwuka, Oyekachi Ohia, Ifeanyi Eze, Augustine Udemba, Onyedikachi Udemba, and Elijah Mmaduipeya Obumneke. These arrests occurred in separate actions across Anambra, Abia, and Imo States, highlighting the comprehensive approach being taken by the military to dismantle these groups and ensure peace in the region.
In the last week alone, the Defence Headquarters reported that military operations across the country resulted in the neutralization of 187 terrorists, the arrest of 311 criminal suspects, and the rescue of 147 individuals who had been kidnapped. These recent military operations also targeted oil theft, further aiding nationwide efforts to restore peace and stability, which has been a critical challenge for the Nigerian government and its armed forces.
Major General Buba stated, “Troops in the Niger Delta area denied the oil theft of the estimated sum of one billion, two hundred and fifty-four million, nine hundred and forty-six thousand six hundred and thirty nairas (N1,254,946,630.00) only. This highlights the continued efforts of our troops to combat illegal activities that undermine our economy and security.”
In these operations, troops uncovered and dismantled 98 illegal refining sites, 49 crude oil cooking ovens, 11 dugout pits, 72 boats, 21 drums, and 30 storage tanks, among other items. This concerted effort underscores the military's commitment to combating oil theft and other forms of organized crime that are prevalent in the region.
Additionally, the troops recovered a significant quantity of stolen and illegally refined oil, specifically 1,090,135 litres of stolen crude oil and 873,510 litres of illegally refined AGO (Automotive Gas Oil). The operations also yielded a considerable cache of weapons, including 205 assorted firearms and 5,241 various rounds of ammunition. This arsenal consisted of various types of firearms, such as 2 G3 rifles, 2 PKT guns, 89 AK47 rifles, 22 fabricated rifles, and several other weapons, which are indicative of the scale and organization of the armed groups being targeted by the military.
Major General Buba detailed various operations carried out by troops in different regions, noting that in the North East, troops of Operation Hadin Kai managed to neutralize 103 terrorists, apprehend 64 suspects, and rescue 15 individuals who had been kidnapped. In addition to this, the troops recovered numerous weapons, including 51 AK47 rifles, 2 PKT guns, 2 FN rifles, and a total of 1,005 rounds of various types of ammunition during their engagements with suspected terrorist groups.
He also elaborated on military activities conducted from 22 to 29 October 2024, when troops in separate offensive operations engaged suspected Boko Haram/ISWAP/JAS terrorists in Dikwa, Gwoza, Kukawa, Damboa, Konduga, and Mafa LGAs of Borno State. These engagements resulted in the neutralization of 31 terrorists and the arrest of 12 individuals suspected of being involved with these groups.
In further operations on 21 and 23 October 2024, troops conducted ambushes against suspected Boko Haram/ISWAP terrorists in Gwoza and Damboa LGAs. Following intense firefights, the troops neutralized 33 terrorists and confiscated a range of weapons and ammunition, enhancing their capabilities in the fight against these militant groups.
Major General Buba provided additional updates on operations in the North Central region, where troops of Operation Safe Haven successfully neutralized 14 violent extremists, arrested 25 individuals, and rescued 26 kidnapped hostages. A variety of weapons and ammunition were recovered during these operations, illustrating the ongoing threats posed by extremist groups in the area.
Throughout various operations conducted from 21 to 27 October 2024, troops managed to apprehend numerous violent extremists and terrorists across different states, including significant arrests in Taraba and Benue States. These arrests included leaders of kidnapping rings, demonstrating the military’s effectiveness in disrupting organized crime networks that contribute to insecurity in the region.
In the North West, troops of Operation Hadarin Daji neutralized 51 terrorists, arrested 55 individuals, and successfully rescued 81 kidnapped hostages. These efforts were complemented by the recovery of 26 AK47 rifles and various other weapons, as well as significant quantities of ammunition, showcasing the military’s ongoing commitment to restoring order in these troubled areas.
Major General Buba stated, “Troops continue to prevail over the terrorists and are winning the war. The terrorists are left with no choice but to surrender or be killed on the battlefield.” This statement underscores the confidence and determination of the Nigerian military as they confront the numerous challenges posed by terrorism and organized crime throughout the country.