The Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF) has arrested hundreds of suspected Boko Haram members in Lagos State as part of ongoing efforts to stop the spread of terrorism from the North to the South-West.
CJTF Commander in Lagos, Mr. Kumar Sanda, revealed this during an award ceremony held at the Airport Hotel in Ikeja on Wednesday.
Sanda said, “If I should mention the number of Boko Haram members we have arrested in Lagos State, people will not believe it. But we have arrested thousands.”
He explained that CJTF officers have made several arrests at trailer parks, quarries, markets, and other areas where people from the northern region usually gather upon entering Lagos.
Sanda emphasised, “We monitor trailer parks, quarries, and check truck pushers because we understand the channels through which they enter Lagos. Our people must remain vigilant. Not all Abokis are bad, but not all are good either. We are committed to keeping Lagos free from Boko Haram and banditry.”
He added that the CJTF is fully committed to the mandate of the Lagos State government to prevent terrorists and bandits from gaining a foothold in the state.
Sanda reiterated, “Boko Haram has no domain in Lagos State. The Chief of Staff to the Lagos State Governor is constantly in touch with us to ensure the people sleep with their eyes closed.”
The CJTF is a volunteer security outfit made up of community members who assist in intelligence gathering and crime prevention, particularly in areas where formal security agencies need support.
Not All Terrorists Are Nigerians, Says Sanda
During his speech, Sanda warned that many of the insurgents operating in the North are not Nigerians, even though they pose as citizens. He urged residents to avoid jumping to conclusions based on people’s state of origin or language.
Sanda said, “Whenever you see a man from Borno State, you might feel scared because of Boko Haram. But many of those you see are not truly Nigerians. That’s not to say there are no Nigerians among them.”
Sanda pointed out that because Boko Haram originated in Borno State, CJTF officers closely monitor the activities of people from that region who relocate to Lagos.
Sanda said “We know when new arrivals come in because we track the truck routes. A person from Borno can identify others from his state; the same goes for indigenes of Kano and other states.”
He said the CJTF relies on a deep understanding of cultural backgrounds and networks to identify people who may pose a threat to public safety.
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Praise and Recognition for CJTF
At the award ceremony, the Nigerian Human Rights Community commended the CJTF for its proactive work in securing Lagos State. They highlighted the efforts of the group in preventing infiltration by terrorists fleeing military operations in the North.
One of the organisers said, “We’re proud of the work being done by the CJTF in Lagos. Their efforts have saved many lives and helped protect the peace in our communities.”
Many guests at the event also praised the CJTF’s commitment to security, despite the dangers involved.
Sanda ended his remarks with a strong call for continued vigilance among Lagos residents.
He said, “Security is everyone’s responsibility. If you notice anything strange, report it. We cannot allow Boko Haram or any other terrorist group to turn our state into a battlefield.”
The CJTF, working hand-in-hand with official security agencies, continues to serve as a key force in protecting Lagos from the threat of insurgency.