Influx of terrorists to Niger communities untrue — Residents

Residents of New Bussa in Borgu Local Government Area of Niger State have refuted the claim of an influx of terrorists from Niger Republic and the Republic of Benin into the area.

Last week, a video circulated on social media allegedly showing a large group of terrorists linked to Boko Haram and Al-Qaeda threatening to occupy Kainji National Park, causing anxiety among residents of New Bussa, the headquarters of Borgu LGA, and its environs.

Speaking to Daily Trust, Yakubu Aliyu Bio, spokesperson of the Borgu Youths Development Association (BYDA), clarified that while terrorists have used parts of Kainji National Park as hideouts, the report of an influx was found to be baseless.

“It was confirmed earlier by security agents that the news was false. Although there was significant panic initially, the Park’s CG, who is a native of the area, also affirmed the information was inaccurate. Residents have since resumed their normal activities,” Yakubu said.

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Yahaya Abdulsamad, another resident, acknowledged previous threats by terrorists to the area but emphasised that the recent report of a large influx from Niger and Benin Republics was unsubstantiated.

“Last year, terrorists attempted to attack the army barracks. While there are reports of terrorists hiding around New Bussa, the recent claim of a large influx from Niger and Benin Republics has been confirmed untrue,” he said.