The Nigerian military is studying the content of the video released today by Boko Haram terrorists and attributed to a man purporting to be the sect’s leader Abubakar Shekau, who was earlier reported killed. “Further information on subsequent position on the issues involved will be released as appropriate in due course,” Director Defence Information, Major General Chris Olukolade, said this evening in Abuja.

He also disclosed that “necessary deployment of troops and equipment is ongoing to reverse all recent violation and breach of security by terrorists and criminals operating in parts of the country.”

According to Olukolade in a statement is Abuja, “The highly coordinated air bombardment is already yielding required results in the mission to repel the unwarranted attacks on citizens especially in Adamawa and Borno states as land forces are also conducting mopping up operations to apprehend retreating terrorists and facilitate restoration of normalcy in some of the affected communities. More details will be released as the operations progresses.”

On the fate of the reported ceasefire aimed at securing the release of the abducted Chibok schoolgirls, Olukolade said: “The military will continue to accord due recognition to any ongoing mediatory efforts towards bringing our girls home and terminating the insecurity in parts of the country.

“Citizens are assured that the military and security agencies remain committed and optimistic for positive outcome of ongoing operations.”

•Photo shows Maj.-Gen. Olukolade.