The Nigerian Army has arrested 12 individuals linked to terrorist activities allegedly carried out by a breakaway faction of Boko Haram known as “Mahmuda,” which had reportedly occupied parts of Kainji Lake National Park in northern Kwara State.
The General Officer Commanding 2 Division, Major General Obinna Onubogu, disclosed this on Saturday during an assessment visit to military camps in Kaiama and Baruten Local Government Areas.
The visit aimed to evaluate troop welfare and receive operational updates.
According to Onubogu, the suspects were apprehended during military raids on Kainji Lake National Park and surrounding border communities.
“Two of the suspects are confirmed members of the armed bandit group, while the others are believed to be accomplices,” he said.
He explained that the ongoing counter-insurgency operation, codenamed Park Strike Four, is designed to flush out bandits and eliminate criminal activities in the park.
Speaking to journalists, Maj. Gen. Onubogu commended the troops’ efforts, stating, “Through the raid operation, the troops have successfully combed a distance of at least 90 kilometres from Kemanji into the Kainji forest, where their firm base is currently located.”
The GOC expressed satisfaction with the mission’s progress, noting that officers and soldiers have successfully dislodged bandits and other criminal elements from the area.
During his visit, Onubogu also met with the Emir of Kaiama, Alhaji Muazu Sheu Omar, and the head of the Kemanji community, Shao’ki Aliyu Siki-Muhammed, to reassure local leaders and boost residents’ morale.
The operation follows directives from the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Olufemi Olatunbosun Oluyede, who ordered the 2 Division to deploy troops to comb border communities in Kwara and Niger States, including Kainji Lake Forest, to eliminate armed groups threatening civilian safety.
Before the military intervention, the insurgents had terrorized residents in Baruten and Kaiama Local Government Areas of Kwara, as well as Borgu Local Government Area in Niger State.
The recent escalation in violent activities prompted Lt. Gen. Oluyede to visit affected Kwara communities last month, where he issued a one-month ultimatum to troops to neutralize the threat.
The ongoing operation continues as security forces work to restore stability in the region.