The Theatre Commander of Operation Lafiya Dole, Maj-Gen. Olusegun Adeniyi has yesterday declared Baga town and environs for safe return of displaced persons in camps and host communities of Borno. Baga is on the shores of Lake Chad, and was severally attacked in decade long Boko Haram insurgency that claimed many lives and property. The declaration of return, was made yesterday (Saturday); in statement of Col. Ado Isa, the Deputy Director, Army Public Relations in Maiduguri, the state capital.
According to him; “Following sustained clearance operations by troops of Operation Lafiya Dole in Baga and adjoining communities, IDPs in camps and host communities can safely return this week. He said other cleared communities; include New and old Marte, which were occupied by Boko Haram insurgents, before the twin communities were routed of terrorists last year by troops. The Guardian also learnt yesterday that the Marte Council, set up a committee for the clearing of bushes and shrubs, preparatory for return of Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) from Dikwa, Maiduguri and Monguno camps.
While assuring retuning residents, Isa in the statement; also said that the cleared fishing town and its adjourning settlements are safe for habitation. He therefore, called on the people to return to their ancestral homes, as the security of their lives and property, is guaranteed. “The Boko Haram elements, has been routed in the Baga/Kukawa/Monguno axis,” he said, noting that all the adjourning settlements are safe for IDPs’ return for habitation. Adeniyi therefore, called on the people to continue cooperate with military and other security agencies by reporting any suspicious persons and activities in Lake Chad region.
