By Gbenga Akingbule
The Multinational Joint Task Force (MNJTF) with its Headquarters in Njamena, Chad Republic on Friday asked residents of Kukawa and neighbouring communities in Borno State, Nigeria to disregard attack threats by the Islamic State – West Africa Province, (ISWAP) describing it as mere propaganda.
Gatekeepers News reports that the MNJTF however requested the communities to be on alert and “report any suspicious activities to the troops immediately.”
MNJTF disclosed this in a statement issued by the Chief Military Public Information Services Officer, Lieutenant Colonel Abubakar Abdullahi where he assured that its ongoing operation- Operation Lake Sanity 2 aimed at rooting out ISWAP and Boko Haram terrorists from the Lake Chad Basin Region will continue irrespective of the propaganda.
The MNJTF also called on media outlets to be wary of the propaganda by ISWAP and not to amplify its messages.
“As Operation Lake Sanity 2 progresses, the Multinational Joint Task Force (MNJTF) is addressing recent propaganda spread by ISWAP terrorists urging Kukawa and neighbouring communities to flee or face attack. Unfortunately, some media outlets have inadvertently amplified this message, overlooking its implications. This reprehensible propaganda is a blatant act of intimidation, a desperate move by a group on the verge of defeat.
“As multinational troops intensify operations, such propaganda is likely to increase, making it crucial for communities to remain steadfast, vigilant, and confident in their safety. The MNJTF and Nigerian Operation HADIN KAI troops are firmly committed to safeguarding Lake Chad Basin communities. They are actively pursuing Boko Haram terrorists, moving swiftly and decisively to neutralize any threats. Their presence and continued operations serve as a robust shield against this menace.
“The terrorists’ so-called ultimatum is a clear sign of their frustration and diminishing power. Their capability to conduct ground operations has been significantly impaired, pushing them towards using scare tactics like Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs) at every opportunity. By issuing such threats, they aim to spread fear and disrupt the lives of Lake Chad Basin residents. It is crucial not to succumb to their tactics but instead to demonstrate resolve and fortitude,” MNJTF Chief Military Public Information Officer said.
