The 21 Armoured Brigade of the Nigerian Army in Maiduguri, Borno State on Sunday said it had introduced new measures to counter Boko Haram attacks on civilians in the state.
The acting Commander of the brigade, Colonel Ibrahim Yusuf, made the disclosure at a news conference in Maiduguri.
Yusuf said: “I want to assure you that the army is doing everything possible to ensure that no civilian is attacked by Boko Haram in the state because we are here to ensure the safety of all Nigerians.”
He linked the recent attacks on travellers and villagers by suspected Boko Haram militants on highways to frustration.
The acting commander said: “Most times, the Boko Haram members go to remote villages to kill innocent civilians in cold blood because they have been frustrated by the army.
“They cannot operate in the open, so they vent their anger on innocent civilians.”
Yusuf, who said that the military was equal to the task, noted: “We cannot be taken by surprise by the Boko Haram.
“The recent attacks are nothing but signs of weakness.
“We are also evolving strategies to make sure that we prevent future attacks, no matter how small.”
Yusuf said the army was willing to give safe passage to members of the sect who wanted to quit.
He said: “I want to assure you that we will give a safe passage to members of the sect, including foot soldiers who are ready to surrender.
“Those involved can either surrender themselves at any military outpost or go to their ward or district head.
“Let me say again that all those who surrender will not be killed but will be given safe passage.”
