DHQ Denies CDS Accusations Against Borno, Yobe Residents

The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) issued a statement on Thursday to clarify that the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), Olufemi Oluyede, did not accuse residents of Borno and Yobe states of complicity in terrorism. The DHQ described reports as misleading and a gross misrepresentation of the CDS's remarks.

Director of Defence Information, Samaila Uba, emphasized that the military's response was necessary due to potentially damaging misinformation that could undermine ongoing counterterrorism efforts. The DHQ stressed the importance of community involvement in the fight against terrorism, stating that residents of Borno and Yobe reject terrorism in all its forms and actively support security agencies.

The CDS referred to specific instances where criminal elements exploited community structures to aid terrorist activities but clarified that these were not general accusations against the entire population. The DHQ reaffirmed its commitment to defending Nigeria's territorial integrity and urged media organizations to uphold professional standards in reporting.