PHOTO: How Troops Defied Terrorist Threats, Observed Eid Prayer in Ngoshe Town
Troops of Operation Hadin Kai have defied earlier threats by insurgents and observed Eid-el-Fitr prayers in Ngoshe and Gwoza areas of Borno State, in what authorities described as a demonstration of restored normalcy and operational dominance.
Security sources told Zagazola Makama that Boko Haram elements had circulated propaganda ahead of the Sallah period, claiming plans to seize Ngoshe town and hold celebrations at the central mosque, in an attempt to instil fear among residents and assert influence over the area.
However, troops of the Nigerian Army, operating under Operation Hadin Kai, intensified their presence in the area following an earlier attack on March 4, reinforcing security through coordinated ground deployments supported by aerial surveillance and actionable local intelligence.
The military response reportedly disrupted insurgent movements in and around the area, leading to the neutralisation of several fighters and effectively neutralising the anticipated threat.
Read Also:
On the day of the Sallah celebration, Ngoshe and adjoining Gwoza communities remained calm, with residents freely attending Eid prayers and participating in festivities without any security incident.
In a symbolic display of state authority, troops also joined the Eid prayers at the Ngoshe central mosque, reinforcing confidence among residents and countering the narrative advanced by the insurgents.
A military source said the presence of troops at the mosque demonstrated the falsity of the threats, noting that the area remained free of Boko Haram fighters during the celebrations.
Community members were commended for their cooperation and vigilance, which authorities said contributed significantly to maintaining peace and stability throughout the period.
The military also urged residents to refrain from circulating unverified information or terrorist propaganda, warning that such actions could undermine ongoing security efforts.
Authorities added that troops would maintain sustained operations in the area to consolidate recent gains and ensure lasting peace and security across affected communities.
By PRNigeria
