The Nigerian Army has firmly denied allegations that it has recruited repented Boko Haram members into its ranks, following a controversial incident involving a soldier.
The denial came after a disturbing incident where Hauwakulu Tabra was reportedly murdered by a soldier, Private Adamu Muhammad, at the army barracks in Enugu.
Reports had surfaced suggesting Muhammad was a former Boko Haram member who had been absorbed into the Army.
However, in a strong rebuttal issued on Sunday by Onyema Nwachuckwu, the army’s director of press, it was clarified that while the Army has integrated members of the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF) who have demonstrated moral integrity and patriotism in combating terrorism, it has never enlisted former Boko Haram insurgents.
“The NA has at no point in time, either in the past or present enlisted repentant Boko Haram members to its strength. However, considerations were given to Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF) who in the fight against terrorism and insurgency in the North East distinguished themselves morally and patriotically,” the statement reads.
“Such members of the CJTF must have also shown commitment, dedication and loyalty to the service and the nation.
“The sad incident of the gruesome murder of Miss Hauwakulu Tabra by Private Adamu Muhammad occurred on the night of Thursday 11 April 2024 and her corpse was discovered within the barracks on Friday 12 April 2024.
“Preliminary investigations revealed that the late Hauwakulu Tabra was actually murdered by the said soldier, who is presently in detention for further investigation to unravel the motive behind his actions.”
The army condoled with the family of the deceased and reiterated that at no time did it enlist repentant Boko Haram members into its fold “as mischievously insinuated”.
“The general public should be rest assured that justice will be served, as the NA will not condone any unprofessional conduct or indiscipline within its ranks,” the statement added.
