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The military high command has linked the fight for control of mineral deposits in certain parts of the country to the rise of terrorism and banditry.
The Director of Defence Media Operations, Major General Edward Buba, disclosed this during the first biweekly briefing of 2024 in Abuja.
Buba said information have revealed that the quest by some entrenched interests to control mineral deposits, particularly in the north and northwest, is one of the underlying factors fueling the activities of terrorist groups and bandits.
He said Nigeria is in a state of war, and the military is working round the clock to flush out the enemies of state.
His word: “History reveals similar resource-driven conflicts, and Nigeria is no exception. Mineral deposits beneath the ground attract certain groups who aim to control them, often at the expense of local communities displaced for their free access.
He emphasized that the ongoing military operations remain focused on neutralizing any terrorist threats wherever they emerge.
“By doing so, we believe their ability to harm civilians will be diminished, leading to a safer environment,” he stated.
While reacting to insecurity in Fedaral Capital Territory, he state that “Operations are currently underway in identified locations within the FCT and surrounding areas, with several individuals apprehended in the past week who now provide intelligence support.
“Our commitment to professionalism guides our operations,” he reiterated regarding soldier conduct. “If any member of the military is found misbehaving, we urge the public to report any misconduct, even video recordings, through their preferred method. We will not hesitate to take action.”
On the Abuja-Kaduna highway, troops effectively engaged terrorists attempting to cross, though tragically, some civilians were caught in the crossfire.
He expressed regret for the civilian casualties and reaffirmed the military’s dedication to minimizing risks to innocent lives.
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