Troops from the 1 Division of the Nigerian Army successfully eliminated the notorious bandit kingpin known as Boderi in a strategic operation on Wednesday. Boderi, allegedly responsible for orchestrating several high-profile kidnappings, including the incidents involving the Yauri school girls, Greenfield University, and the Nigerian Defence Academy attacks, was reportedly killed alongside another kingpin, Bodejo, during the ambush.

The Director of Army Public Relations, Maj-Gen. Onyema Nwachukwu, revealed this development in a statement dated February 22, 2024. The operation took place through an ambush along the Bada – Riyawa axis on the Kaduna – Birnin Gwari Road. In the engagement, the troops neutralized six insurgents, seized 2 AK 47 rifles, 5 AK 47 rifle magazines, 300 rounds of 7.62mm Special ammunition, and destroyed 19 motorcycles onsite.

Nwachukwu emphasized that efforts are underway to verify the demise of the notorious bandit kingpin Boderi, with ongoing intelligence activities.

In a separate mission covering the Igabi, Giwa, and Birnin Gwari Local Government Areas of Kaduna State, troops from the 1 Division neutralized insurgents and recovered additional firearms and ammunition in encounters with the insurgents. The army continues to project ongoing operations to eliminate insurgents from these areas, bringing relief to the local population.

During a routine patrol along the Maganda-Dausayi – Mugaba axis, army troops engaged insurgents in a firefight. Although the exact number of insurgents couldn’t be determined, the troops neutralized two of them and confiscated 1 AK 47 rifle, 1 AK 47 Magazine, 3 rounds of 7.62mm Special ammunition, a Techno phone, 3 Hilux and motorcycle keys, suspected marijuana, tramadol tablets, and 13,200 Naira in the one-hour-long gun duel.

The statement highlighted that insurgents employed rustled herds of cattle as shields during the firefight, resulting in some livestock casualties. The army remains committed to pursuing fleeing insurgents and ensuring the area of responsibility is free from armed violence.

Maj-Gen. Onyema Nwachukwu urged the public to continue cooperating with the Nigerian Army and other security agencies in the ongoing efforts against terrorism and insurgency in the country.

General Christopher Musa, the Chief of Defence Staff, has strongly condemned those advocating for a coup d’état in Nigeria, branding them as enemies of the nation and warning that the law will catch up with them.

Earlier, the military had disclosed that there were external pressures for a government takeover due to the prolonged insecurity issues in the country. However, General Musa asserted that the Armed Forces are fully capable and committed to safeguarding democracy in Nigeria.

Speaking to reporters after inaugurating the main entrance of the 6 Division, Nigerian Army, and Officers Transit Accommodation in Port Harcourt on Wednesday, General Musa acknowledged the challenges facing the nation. Nevertheless, he emphasized that resorting to coup calls is not the solution, asserting that democracy is the preferred path for national development.

General Musa stated, “Anyone advocating for a coup does not have Nigeria’s best interests at heart. It is crucial to make it clear that the Armed Forces of Nigeria are dedicated to upholding democracy.”

Expressing the military’s commitment to supporting democracy, General Musa cautioned against those pushing for alternatives, describing them as malevolent individuals who do not wish well for Nigeria. He underscored the legal consequences awaiting such individuals, emphasizing the importance of patience and collective support for the government.

Highlighting the ongoing efforts to address the nation’s challenges, General Musa urged citizens to be patient and collaborate with the government. He assured Nigerians that despite the current difficulties, the nation will overcome and improve, emphasizing the need for unity in defeating those working against the government’s success.

In conclusion, General Musa affirmed, “We are navigating through a challenging period, but with collective efforts, we will triumph. The Armed Forces are steadfast in supporting the government’s initiatives to ensure development, success, and lasting peace in Nigeria.”