TheCable

Coordinator of the national information centre, Mike Omeri has disclosed that the military has deployed about 500 soldiers to the northeastern part of the country to join the ongoing fight against insurgency.

He said the deployed officers have been assigned to patrol towns within the region in order to guard against any untoward incident.

Describing the development as a boost to the fight against terrorism, Omeri refuted reports that insurgents have taken over Mubi, a town in Adamawa state.

He enthused that Gulak, Michika and Kunchinga communities, which are presently under the control of Boko Haram, would soon be recaptured.

“As part of efforts being made to check the incursion and Boko Haram challenge, the military has continued to reinforce its presence in several challenged communities in the north-east,” he said.

“Military authorities have confirmed the renewed deployment of more than 500 troops or about that to support the expedition around that area.

“We believe that with this commitment and the additional deployment, the situation will be brought under control.”

Meanwhile, the military has denied the report that insurgents have surrounded Maiduguri, capital of Borno state.

In a statement issued on Tuesday, the defence authorities described the news as an “alarmist” report intended to cause panic, maintaining that it is fully prepared to repel any attack.

“This kind of alarmist report is uncalled for in view of the efforts and alertness,” read the statement.

“All facets of security arrangements for the defence of Maiduguri have been upgraded to handle any planned attack or attempt to disrupt the city’s prevailing peace.

“Citizens are nevertheless enjoined to remain vigilant as they go about their lawful businesses.”