Following the report of multiple suicide bomb attacks at a Police checkpoint in Maiduguri yesterday, the Military has sued for public cooperation and calm, saying it is one of the signs that the terrorists have been defeated and their nuisance fizzling out.

Director Defence Information (DDI), Brig-Gen. Rabe Abubakar, told The Guardian yesterday in a telephone interview that the recent spate of suicide bombing missions or attempts originate from the sleeper cells in the Northeast, yet to be uncovered by the military.

“I can tell Nigerians that Boko Haram, by the grace of God, is crippled and they would never come back again. What we are seeing are pockets of attacks from sleeper cells yet to be unveiled that are carrying out the attacks to express the extent of their frustration,” he said.

Abubakar explained that terrorists, by their nature the world over, have similar modus operandi and if overpowered or facing imminent defeat, they activate their sleeper cells from where suicide bombers are released to cause panic and possibly make a statement that they are still around.

“Most often than not, these suicide-bombing missions do not make much meaningful impact on the battle.

“This does not mean they are still strong or potent. The suicide bombers are like touts sent on a mission by their sponsors who lack the capacity to confront the target. The tout is expected to just get attention.

“Usually, it is a sign of frustration and desperation. You can see the number that has already surrendered,” he said.

The DDI urged Nigerians not to panic, as the military in close collaboration with other security agencies, is not resting on its oars to complete the decimation of terrorism out of the country.

He reiterated that the terrorists are defeated and cannot be allowed control of any part of the northeast again.

While assuring Nigerians of the efforts of the military, the DDI solicited the cooperation of the general public, saying the insurgents cannot do more than they are doing.

“So, all that they are doing now is an expression of desperation and anger over the mileage they have lost. I can tell Nigerians that Boko Haram, by the grace of God, is crippled and they would never come back again.

“But the cooperation of all is required at this
time,” he said.