The Ekiti State Command of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has arrested a suspected high-ranking Boko Haram member, Isiah Jafaru, also known as Nabida, who allegedly fled the Northeast following sustained military operations by the Nigerian Army.
The suspect was apprehended in Iloro Ekiti after his behavior in the community raised suspicions.
According to SC Afolabi Tolulope, the NSCDC spokesman, preliminary investigations revealed that Jafaru was a key member of the terrorist group and had relocated to Ekiti, where some members of the group were reportedly dispersed.
Parading the suspect, the State Commandant, Dr. Sosina Paul, disclosed that the command’s intelligence and Counter Terrorism Unit had been actively pursuing fleeing terrorists to prevent them from regrouping in the state. He assured that collaboration with other security agencies would ensure Ekiti remains secure, particularly during the festive season.
In line with inter-agency cooperation, the NSCDC plans to transfer the suspect to the Department of State Services (DSS) for further investigation.
Dr. Sosina urged residents to stay vigilant and familiarize themselves with their neighbors, emphasizing the importance of promptly reporting individuals or groups with questionable behavior to security agencies.
“Our traditional rulers and landowners must monitor activities on their lands, especially in remote forests that are difficult to access,” he advised.
He reassured residents that the NSCDC would protect the identities of individuals who provide credible information to enhance the security of people and critical infrastructure in Ekiti.
