Buratai Clarifies ‘Technically Defeated’ Boko Haram, Defends Military Record
Former Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Tukur Yusuf Buratai, has defended the military’s past claim that Boko Haram was “technically defeated,” saying the statement was widely misunderstood.
Speaking with Seun Okinbaloye on Channels Television, Buratai explained that the term referred to a significant reduction in attacks and the recovery of territories previously held by insurgents.
“Between 2014 and 2015, bombings were frequent and widespread. But by 2016 to 2018, those incidents reduced drastically, and many areas were reclaimed,” he said.
He added that insurgencies are rarely eliminated completely in a short period, citing global examples where such conflicts lasted decades.
Buratai also addressed controversy surrounding the rehabilitation of former insurgents, noting that the policy was a government initiative and not solely a military decision.
He, however, acknowledged that individuals involved in serious crimes should be investigated and possibly prosecuted, suggesting the policy may require review.
