GSM services blocked in Borno

All the major GSM service providers including MTN, Airtel, Etisalat and Glo among others have switched off their masts as part of operations launched by security forces in the continued onslaught against the Boko Haram.
When a state of emergency was declared by President Goodluck Jonathan in May last year, telephone services were seized in the three affected states but after some months, services were restored in Adamawa, later Yobe and finally in Borno State on December 3, 2013.
Speaking on the recent  development, spokesman of the 7 Division of the Nigerian Army, Colonel Mohammed Dole, said residents had a lot to contribute to the peace process.
“Yes, GSM services have been seized in Borno again and this is one of the sacrifices that people have to make. There is an ongoing operation and we want to get it right. We are hopeful services will be restored soon,” he said.
Dole thanked the youth vigilantes also known as the civilian JTF for their “unprecedented support to the military” in the ongoing offensive. He also described the media as partners in building confidence in the minds of the people as well as boosting the morale of troops in the battle front.
“I also wish to caution politicians and opinion leaders against inflammatory statements capable of causing discomfort.  In the ongoing operation we have reached a stage whereby the cooperation of everybody is necessary in order to subdue the common enemy,” Dole said. Some people interviewed in Maiduguri said if the seizure of GSM services would restore law and order, they would welcome it.