Pupils and organisations in Borno throw their weight behind law enforcement in battle against extremist violence

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By Ndahi Marama, Maiduguri

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Students from tertiary institutions across Borno State, alongside civil society organisations, youth groups and community leaders, on Sunday staged a peaceful solidarity rally in support of Nigeria’s security agencies in the fight against Boko Haram, ISWAP, banditry and other violent criminal groups.

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The rally, held at the Post Office Roundabout in Maiduguri, attracted students from the University of Maiduguri, Borno State University, Ramat Polytechnic, Mohammed Lawan College of Agriculture and other institutions.

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Participants commended the Armed Forces, Nigeria Police Force, Department of State Services (DSS), Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF) and other security personnel for their efforts in combating terrorism and restoring peace.

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They also urged Nigerians to support ongoing security operations by remaining vigilant and cooperating with security agencies.

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Speaking during the rally, student leader Suleiman Muhammad Sarki called on Nigerians to reject terrorism and promote national unity.

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“Terrorism has killed our people, destroyed our communities and taken away our peace. This fight is not for government alone; it requires the support of every Nigerian.

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“We must also reject the payment of ransom to kidnappers, bandits and terrorists because it strengthens their operations. Communities should report suspicious activities, parents should teach peace, and young people should embrace unity over hatred,” he said.

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Participants displayed placards with inscriptions such as “United Against Terrorism,” “Support Our Troops,” “Enough is Enough,” “Peace is Our Right,” and “Nigeria Must Win.”

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Students of the Mohammed Lawan College of Agriculture called for increased government investment in communities affected by insurgency, stressing that restoring farming activities would enhance food security and accelerate recovery.

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A student of education emphasised the need for schools to continue promoting tolerance, peaceful coexistence and respect for human life, describing education as one of the strongest tools against violent extremism.

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Students of Ramat Polytechnic praised the resilience of communities affected by insurgency, noting that many residents had rebuilt their lives despite years of violence.

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Others urged Nigerians to verify information before sharing it on social media, warning that misinformation could undermine security operations and create unnecessary panic.

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Several speakers commended troops serving under Operation HADIN KAI and other security formations, acknowledging the sacrifices made by security personnel in the fight against insurgency.

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The students also called on traditional rulers, religious leaders, civil society organisations and the media to intensify public enlightenment campaigns against violent extremism.

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According to them, addressing terrorism requires not only military operations but also sustained investment in education, youth empowerment, community policing, intelligence sharing and post-conflict reconstruction.

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A student of the University of Maiduguri, Aisha Ibrahim, said the fight against terrorism should not be left to security agencies alone, urging citizens to contribute through vigilance, intelligence sharing and the promotion of peaceful coexistence.

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She noted that sustained military operations had enabled many displaced families to return home, while schools, markets and farming activities had gradually resumed in several communities across Borno State.

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Another student, Bashir Babagana, commended the resilience and professionalism of security personnel operating in difficult environments, saying their sacrifices deserved national recognition and support.

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Participants also appealed to Nigerians to avoid spreading unverified information capable of undermining security operations and instead rely on credible sources.

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The rally featured prayers for civilians and security personnel who lost their lives in the fight against terrorism, as well as prayers for the safety of troops currently serving in operational theatres.

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The students reaffirmed their commitment to supporting lawful efforts aimed at defeating Boko Haram, ISWAP, bandits and other criminal groups, while urging Nigerians, irrespective of ethnicity, religion or political affiliation, to remain united in building a peaceful and secure nation.

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