Borno Government Responds to Escape of ‘Repentant’ Insurgents

• The Borno State Government confirmed the escape of six unarmed insurgents but denied claims they fled with government weapons
• Commissioner Prof. Usman Tar warned against terrorist propaganda, emphasizing the need for sustainable solutions to combat insecurity in Nigeria

The Borno State Government has acknowledged the escape of several insurgents who recently surrendered but has denied claims that they fled with government weapons.

In a statement on Thursday by the Commissioner for Information and Internal Security, Prof. Usman Tar, the government confirmed the escape of six individuals, not 13 as reported by some sources.

Tar emphasized that none of the escapees were armed when they fled, and initial investigations have ruled out any theft of government arms.

The government warned the public against falling for terrorist propaganda, which could lower morale among both troops and civilians. Tar explained that exaggerating the situation could embolden terrorists and negatively impact ongoing counter-insurgency efforts.

The escapees were part of a larger group of over 20,000 insurgents who had recently surrendered and underwent a thorough documentation process.

These individuals were classified as “low risk” based on their mental state, vulnerability to extremism, substance abuse tendencies, and likelihood of returning to violence.

Tar also pointed out that the weapons seen in terrorist propaganda videos do not necessarily belong to the government, noting that terrorists often acquire arms from hidden sources.

While the number of escapees is small compared to the overall number of processed former militants, the government is working with relevant agencies to track and re-arrest the six escapees.

Prof. Tar reassured the public that efforts are ongoing to maintain peace in the state, urging citizens to continue supporting the government’s mission to restore security across Borno.