by Isi Esene

The Nigerian troops have further demonstrated their gallantry when they resisted and repelled rampaging militants who attempted to invade Damaturu, the capital of Yobe State early today.

The ground troops were supported by the Nigerian Airforce jet that provided aerial supports with heavy bombardments at the terrorist targets.

Reports say the troops were mindful of the rule of engagement as well as non-passage of State of Emergency, they nevertheless adopted strategic approach to secure the civilian population while repelling and apprehending the terrorists.

A top security source disclosed that “the battle is not yet over, as there are suspicions that some of the terrorists might have melted into the community to hide or for other ulterior motives.”

The security personnel therefore urged the residents to assist the force by identifying and exposing the terrorists that may be hiding within the community.

Meanwhile early in the morning, the Defence Headquarters had assured
Nigerians that the military was engaging the terrorists in Damaturu.

The tweet posted on the DHQ Twitter handle states that “troops backed by the Airforce are carefully engaging terrorists who attacked the town in the early hours of today. The approach is to secure the civilian population while repelling or apprehending the terrorists.”

Eyewitness reports indicate that a large number of Damaturu residents fled the town during the firefight while those remaining did so with their hearts in their mouth.

Sources say the military is currently making efforts to consolidate its hold on the town.

Isime Esene