On Wednesday, the Yobe government announced that former members of Boko Haram are helping with counterinsurgency efforts within the state.
The Special Advisor on Security to Governor Mai Mala Buni, retired Brig.-Gen. Dahiru Abdulsalam, disclosed this to reporters in Damaturu.
In response to worries expressed by a few locals regarding the participation of reformed rebels in security operations in Geidam town, Abdulsalam took action.
“No government will ever make a decision that will harm its citizens. In order to bring about peace, the government is dedicated to putting a stop to insurgency.
“These remorseful Boko Haram militants, known as the ‘hybrid force,’ have been supporting security services in their operations in Buni Yadi, Goniri, and Damaturu.
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“First, they help by providing intelligence about rebels via their sources who are still affiliated with ISWAP and Boko Haram.
“Secondly, they help with information about suppliers and collaborators of ISWAP and Boko Haram,” he stated.
According to the official, remorseful Boko Haram members were sent to Geidam to help stop terrorists and their allies from infiltrating the business town.
“There are individuals in Geidam who are conducting business with Boko Haram.” Some people provide the rebels with food, gasoline, and other necessities.
Twelve people were detained, questioned, and moved to Damaturu after “the hybrid forces identified persons having links with Boko Haram leadership and their supply chain,” according to Abdulsalam.
Abdulsalam urged Geidam locals to assist law enforcement in removing terrorists from their areas of influence and cutting off their supplies.
“Food, medicine, and gasoline are Boko Haram’s three main needs. For this reason, they target hospitals, rob stores, and take supplies.
According to Abdulsalam, “these are the logistics they need to keep upsetting us and innocent people.”
