Lucky Irabor, Nigeria’s Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), says recent developments have shown that some Nigerian soldiers aid terrorists in their activities.

In a letter dated April 4, and addressed to commanders of various operations, Irabor decried the development, expressing worry over its immediate and potential implications.

The defence chief highlighted the arrest of a soldier by a covert Intelligence Team ‘for conniving with a confirmed terrorist informant known as Babagana Kura in Bama LGA, Borno State’, saying there were several other instances.

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“Recent happenings in various TOOs reveal an increase in cases of aiding and abetting by personnel. This development was revealed in different reports of arrests of military personnel within a short period of time. It would be recalled that a soldier was arrested by a covert Intelligence Team for conniving with a confirmed terrorist informant known as Babagana Kura in Bama LGA, Borno State,” the letter reads.

“Similarly, another soldier was arrested with 162 rounds of 7.62mm (special), 60 rounds of 7.62mm NATO and IEDD making materials concealed in his travelling bag without a valid ID card.

“The arrests of these personnel are indicative of insider action that has continued to aid the adversary, pertinently with immediate or potential impact on operations.

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“In view of the foregoing, I am directed to respectfully request Commanders of various operations in the country to educate their personnel on the implications of collaborating with the enemy and take appropriate actions that would forestall such incidents. Please accept the assurances and esteemed regards of the CDS.”

Nigeria has been battling incessant terror attacks from Boko Haram, Islamic State’s West Africa Province (ISWAP) and other groups since 2009, and there had been speculation that people in government and the military were supporting the insurgency.

FIJ earlier reported testimonies of terrorists who confirmed receiving monetary and arms support from the government.