TheCable

The Nigerian army has accused some influential persons in the north-east of frustrating its effort to stamp out insurgency.

According to Sani Usman, spokesman of the army, the unnamed individuals, who are allegedly benefitting from the unrest in the region, have been holding clandestine meetings and also employed the services of some marabouts to achieve their aim.

Warning them to desist, Usman said the army would not hesitate to deal with anyone found wanting.

“The Nigerian army wishes to inform the public and send a very strong and serious final warning to some prominent individuals and political groups who hail from Borno state in particular, and the north-east generally, that there is information of plans by some highly placed individuals and political groups to undermine and scuttle the fight against terrorism and insurgency in this country,” Usman said in a statement.

“The unscrupulous individuals and their cohorts were determined to reverse the gains made and scuttle our efforts of achieving the presidential directive to defeat Boko Haram terrorists within three months. They are enlisting the services of some non-governmental organisations in this grand design.

“It has come to our knowledge that they are employing every means to see that the operation does not succeed in order for them to continue to enjoy certain benefits.

“It has been revealed that they are employing the services of marabouts and other unethical means in order to frustrate our efforts and the operations in addition to campaign of calumny.

“We are aware of their clandestine meetings and other diabolical efforts to achieve their nefarious aims. This would not be tolerated. Therefore, such individuals and groups should be warned in unmistakable terms that anyone found would be dealt with accordingly.

“People should place the interest of the nation above any personal gain or ambition. The continued lost of lives and property in this country through terrorists activities does not one any good.”