The Nigerian Army has officially cleared a citizen of the Republic of Niger who was previously reported as a suspected terrorist, stating that detailed investigations found no evidence linking him to any terrorist organisation.
The clarification was contained in a statement issued on Thursday by the Acting Military Information Officer of Headquarters Joint Task Force (North East), Operation HADIN KAI, Captain Mohammed Goni.
According to the statement, the military was responding to media reports concerning an individual intercepted by troops of the 68 Battalion during an exploitation operation that followed the terrorist attack at Cross Kauwa.
The individual was identified as Aboubakar Muhammad Zein-Nur, also known as Houdairi.
Captain Goni explained that the suspect was initially taken into custody as part of routine security procedures because insurgent groups frequently exploit border communities and cross-border routes for movement, logistics and other operational activities.
He noted that the prevailing security situation in the North-East necessitated comprehensive profiling and intelligence screening of anyone intercepted under suspicious circumstances.
According to him, security agencies conducted extensive intelligence assessments and investigative procedures after the arrest.
“Comprehensive intelligence assessments and other investigative processes did not establish that the individual has any affiliation to any known terrorist group,” the statement said.
The military further disclosed that investigations confirmed Zein-Nur is a resident of Shattu Anguba Village in Bosso, Republic of Niger.
According to the Army, he earns his livelihood as a camel rearer, operating beyond the River Komadougou along the Nigeria-Niger border.
“The individual has consequently been cleared of any terrorist links,” Captain Goni stated.
Operation HADIN KAI emphasised that the outcome of the investigation reflects the military’s commitment to ensuring that innocent civilians are not wrongly labelled as terrorists during counter-insurgency operations.
The Theatre Command explained that every individual intercepted during military operations is subjected to due process and comprehensive security screening before any conclusion is reached.
“The Theatre Command reiterates that all persons intercepted under suspicious circumstances during military operations are subjected to due process and appropriate security screening to ensure that innocent civilians are distinguished from terrorist elements,” the statement added.
The Army also reaffirmed its determination to continue its counter-terrorism operations across the North-East while maintaining professionalism and adherence to established legal standards.
Operation HADIN KAI stressed that respect for human rights and the rule of law remains central to its operations despite the challenging security environment.
“Operation HADIN KAI remains resolute in denying terrorists freedom of action while upholding the highest standards of professionalism, respect for human rights, and the rule of law,” the statement concluded.
