The Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, has attributed Boko Haram’s inability to establish a presence in Kano State to the city’s strong commercial environment.
He noted that the community’s refusal to accommodate the insurgents stemmed from concerns that their activities would disrupt business.
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Speaking on Thursday during an interview on Arise TV’s Morning Show, Musa highlighted the crucial role communities play in combating insurgency. He explained that in Kano, the local population actively resisted Boko Haram’s presence, which made it difficult for the terrorist group to settle.
“In Kano, Boko Haram could not survive because the people, knowing the economic impact terrorism would have on their businesses, refused to give them any form of support. Wherever they attempted to rent accommodation, they were reported, and authorities acted swiftly,” Musa said.
The Defence Chief also pointed out how community members in other regions, particularly in the North-East, have played a key role in the fight against insurgency by working alongside security forces. “We got communities to identify youths without any criminal records, and after profiling by the police and DSS, we provided them with training to help protect their areas. This has been instrumental in delaying insurgents until troops can take action.”
However, Musa expressed frustration over what he described as sabotage by some Nigerians, undermining military efforts. He said, “Nigerians are sabotaging us. The last time a military Armoured Personnel Carrier got stuck, it was locals who called terrorists to come in large numbers. People are also selling fuel and banned urea fertilizer to Boko Haram, knowing they are making money at the expense of security.”
He concluded by urging communities to remain vigilant and avoid giving any form of support to terrorists. “These terrorists live within our communities, and we need everyone’s support to ensure they don’t find refuge among us.”
