By Tayo Joseph Lagos
The Borno State Government has yesterday closed four roads in the state, following the advice of Theatre Commander, Operation Lafiya Dole, Maj-Gen Rogers Nicholas to prevent wounded Boko Haram terrorists from fleeing after the ongoing military operations in Sambisa Forest.
The banned roads cover a total distance of 300 kilometres; and located on eastern and northern flanks of Sambisa Forest, where insurgents had been hibernating for over four years to destroy lives and property.
The terrorists, according to the Army in Maiduguri, had been attacking and killing people in some communities adjourning the forest in Borno and Yobe states.
The Commissioner of Information, Dr. Mohammed Bulama in statement yesterday disclosed this to journalists in Maiduguri.
According to him, the closures of the three roads were taken in the interest of the security of lives and property of the people, and as advised by the Theatre Commander of Operation Lafiya Dole, Nicholas.
The 134-kilometre Damaturu-Biu road, which lies on western flank of the Forest, was however not closed by either Borno or Yobe state government.
“Government regrets any inconveniences this temporary restriction may cause members of the general public. I wish to assure our people and the final return of peace to the state remains the paramount concern of Government,” said Dr. Bulama.
He said as a result of intensified onslaught of the gallant troops of Nigerian Army against Boko Haram insurgents; in Sambisa Forest, terrorists are desperately on the run.
He further disclosed that the terrorists are attempting to disperse into secured civilian populated areas of Borno and Yobe states.
Dr. Bulama also advised members of the public to heightened their vigilance and remain alert by reporting any suspicious movement of individuals and groups of people to military and security agencies. “The strict compliance to this order is highly solicited please,” he said.
