Military Reacts To Shekau’s New Video

The Nigerian army has reacted to the recent video released by Abubakar Shekau, the leader of the Boko Haram terrorist group.

Abubakar Shekau sends a news message to Nigerians. Snapshot from a video: Reuters

Responding to the video released on Friday by the sect’s leader, the Nigerian military revealed that it is studying the new video where Shekau, who was supposedly killed by security forces, dismissed claims of a ceasefire deal with the Nigerian government as well as dumped every hope of the return of over 200 girls that were abducted by the sect on April 14, 2014.

This was contained in a statement issued on Saturday by Defence Headquarters spokesman, Major General Chris Olukolade, a copy obtained by Premium Times.

He further hinted that the military would make its position on the video known after a thorough review.

“The content of the video purportedly released by terrorist on Friday is being studied.  Further information on subsequent position on the issues involved will be released as appropriate in due course. The military will continue to accord due recognition to any ongoing mediatory efforts towards bringing our girls home and terminating the insecurity in parts of the country. Citizens are assured that the military and security agencies remain committed and optimistic for positive outcome of ongoing operations,” Olukolade said.

It would be recalled that the Nigerian government on October 17, 2014, announced a ceasefire agreement with the terrorists group, Boko Haram and went ahead to suspend military operations against the sect.

It was reported that part of the agreement included the released of the abducted Chibok girls whom have been expected since the announcement.

However, the alleged agreement was breached when Boko Haram launched fresh attacks on some towns in Borno and Adamawa States, and refused to release the girls on the expected dates. The Nigerian government continued to express optimism that the terrorists would keep to their word and release the girls insisting that talks were being held and that the new attacks were carried out by splinter groups of Boko Haram.

Meanwhile, Shekau in the new video stated that his group will continue to fight the Nigerian state and debunked a ceasefire deal.

Shekau also denied links to Danladi Adamu, the alleged representative of the Boko Haram terrorists group who is claimed to be dialoguing with the Nigerian government. He disclosed that Chibok girls have all been “married off”, and will not return to their families.


Meanwhile, five military commanders are being  kept in custody in Yola, Adamawa State, for reportedly abandoning Mubi town, during an attack by Boko Haram earlier this week.