Nigeria’s Defence Headquarters has issued a stern warning to former militant leader Asari Dokubo, urging him to tone down his public statements or face direct military action.
This comes after Dokubo, 60, posted a viral video last Saturday, threatening to shoot down helicopters he claims were conducting surveillance over his compound ¹.
Major General Edward Buba, Director of Defence Media Operations, responded to Dokubo’s threats at a bi-weekly media briefing in Abuja, stating, “Our enemy is the terrorists.” Buba emphasized that regardless of regional labels, such as “bandits” in the northwest and northeast, these groups are all considered terrorists.
Dokubo’s video sparked widespread concern about potential escalation of tensions in the Niger Delta region. He linked the aerial activity to perceived provocation from the government, police, and supporters of former Rivers State Governor and current FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike.
In the video, Dokubo declared, “I didn’t go and look for the helicopter to shoot them down. I will shoot down the helicopter. I swear by Allah that I will shoot down the helicopter.”
The military highlighted its recent successes against insurgent forces, with General Buba citing the elimination of over 300 terrorist commanders and numerous foot soldiers in the last three quarters.
The military’s strategic approach aims to diminish terrorist fighting capabilities and damage their military potential.
Buba supported this claim by referencing recent weapons and ammunition recoveries by troops.
