The people of Magumeri town in Magumeri Local Government Area of Borno State are in an unholy alliance with Boko Haram terrorists, the Nigerian Army said on Thursday morning.

Director of Army Public Relations, Brigadier General Sani Kukasheka Usman, said the army arrived at the conclusion following an investigation into Wednesday evening’s attack on Magumeri by Boko Haram.

He said: “Preliminary investigation shows that the attackers of Magumeri came from the same community. The terrorists that attacked the village are well known to the people.

It should also be noted that the village was never attacked throughout the period of the insurgency for some inexplicable reasons. The terrorists and their collaborators hibernating in the area were never exposed. There seems to be unholy alliance between the terrorists and the villagers.

“Consequently, we are constrained to state that it’s now high time for the people to take up the fight themselves and help the Nigerian military and other security agencies to protect them. It is a grievous mistake and criminal offence to continue to shield or harbour any known Boko Haram terrorist in their midst.

“The terrorists must be exposed and their movements promptly reported to the security agencies. The terrorists are inhuman and barbaric, therefore cannot be trusted to spare anyone in perpetuating their inhuman acts.

“It is imperative that all communities in the North East especially Borno State, should fully cooperate with the military and the Security agencies by exposing Boko Haram terrorists in their respective towns and villages.”

On the attack on Magumeri, Gen. Usman said it was repelled by gallant troops of 8 Task Force Division, Operation LAFIYA DOLE.

He said: “The terrorists who came with some vehicles at about 6.00pm attempted to set the town ablaze and kill the residents but the timely intervention of the troops prevented that mishap.

“The troops have neutralised quite a number of the attackers and those that escaped with gunshot wounds are being pursued.

“So far, the troops have recovered 3 vehicles and large quantity of arms and ammunition.”

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