Media Glorifying Boko Haram: Buratai

The Chief of Army Staff, Lt, Gen. Tukur Yusuf Buratai has cautioned the media as well as Nigerians to stop glorifying Bokoharam by calling them, ISWAP, JAS but call them exactly what they’re, criminals, robbers,rapist,murderers,etc as these names only gives them “undue publicity”.

He said calling the insurgents such names “has further boosted the image of the criminal gang thus assuming larger than life status.” Gen Buratai made the appeal in Maiduguri while addressing troops in the North-East.

Speaking through the acting Director Army Public Relation, Sagir Musa, the army chief said “it is wrong for any person to eulogise or support murderers, bandits and armed robbers that the known Boko Haram terrorists group has turned into.
“Consequently, referring to such gang of criminals, bandits, insurgents such as Boko Haram Terrorists Group, JAS or ISWAP in Nigeria could amount to supporting or encouraging terrorism.”  “The Chief of Army Staff said that it is also important to note that the mode of operation of these elements, is pure criminality for personal gains”. Mr Musa added.

“Unfortunately, many Nigerians are not aware that giving prominence to the criminal activities of the terrorists group through sensational headlines and fake news in both electronic and print media could also amount to tacit support to terrorism which violates the Terrorism Prevention Act 2011.

“The Nigerian Army is asking for the continued understanding and cooperation of all Nigerians and well meaning people.”