The Nigerian Army on Wednesday released 983 suspects cleared of links with Boko Haram insurgents.
Theatre Commander, Operation Lafiya Dole Maj.-Gen. Olusegun Adeniyi, (OPLD), made the disclosure in Maiduguri at the formal handing over of the suspects to the Borno Government.
Adeniyi disclosed that the suspects comprised of 978 males and five females.
NAN reports that the affected persons were detained at a military facility over suspected links with the insurgents.
Adeniyi explained that the suspects were cleared by the Joint Investigative Panel set up by the authorities.
The commander added that the suspects were cleared of any links with insurgents and certified fit for reintegration with their families and society.
“The release of the suspects marked a milestone in the Operation Lafiya Dole to defeat insurgency and restore peace to the region.
“The Federal Government implemented the Operation Safe Corridor to encourage insurgents to surrender for rehabilitation and integration into society.
“I call on the insurgents to surrender to enable them benefit from the opportunities of the programme.
“Their aim for a caliphate will not be actualised, I call on the insurgents to surrender.
“Let Shekau and Albarnawi to die alone, they are defeated and you should not die with them,” Adeniyi said.
Adeniyi who commended the Borno Government for its support to the military, advocated for skill training programme to enable them to learn trades and engage in productive activities.
