Esther Oseyiomon
Troops of Operation Hadin Kai have secured Ngoshe and Gwoza towns in Borno State, ensuring peaceful Eid al-Fitr celebrations despite threats from insurgents.
The military said the operation thwarted plans by Boko Haram and Islamic State West Africa Province to overrun Ngoshe and disrupt Sallah activities.
Ahead of the celebrations, the terrorist groups had circulated propaganda claiming they would seize the town and hold prayers at the central mosque.
Security sources said troops responded by reinforcing positions in Ngoshe following an earlier attack on the town on March 4.
Ground forces, supported by air operations and local intelligence, launched coordinated actions that disrupted the insurgents’ movements.
The military said several terrorists were neutralised before they could execute their planned assault on the community.
On Sallah day, residents of Ngoshe and Gwoza reportedly moved freely and observed prayers without fear of attack.
In a symbolic move, troops were said to have celebrated Sallah at the Ngoshe central mosque, countering the insurgents’ claims of control.
The Armed Forces commended residents for their cooperation and urged continued vigilance, warning against the spread of terrorist propaganda that could undermine security efforts.