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From Timothy Olanrewaju, Maiduguri
The military has launched counter-religious extremism and counter-violence campaigns in Borno State, to curtail possible recruitment of youths into violent groups.
Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen Tukur Buratai, said at the launch in Maiduguri, capital of Borno state, yesterday, that the one month campaign is a right step to counter the narrative against insurgents’ ideologies and violence.
“It is a step in the right direction as far as de-mobilisation and de-radicalisation of repentant Boko Haram and other extreme groups are concerned,” Buratai, who was represented by the Chief of Training and Logistics, Army Headquarters, Maj Gen David Ahmadu said.
He said the campaign is part of efforts to truly return peace to Borno and the North East.
Army Director of Civil-Military Affairs, Maj. Gen. Nuhu Angbazo said some violent conflicts were fuelled by misconception or mis-interpretation of religious books.
He said the programme was organised to counter negative ideologies and ensure people are no longer brainwashed and urged parents and guardians allow their children express themselves in peaceful manner.
Borno Governor, Kashim Shettima, who was represented by his Attorney General, Kaka Shehu Lawan, appealed to religious leaders in the state to give the military the needed support.
He said the state government would provide enabling environment to make the de-radicalisation exercise a success.
