Many discussions about the killings in Baga, Borno State totally miss the point. The contentions are more about the number of people killed, rather than wondering if soldiers complied with rules of engagements for such operations.
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Initial figures of 185 people caused enough outrage. Senator Maina Ma'aji Lawan, who represents Borno North Senatorial District, where Baga, a fishing settlement on the shores of Lake Chad is, said his visit revealed 228 fresh graves, 4,000 houses destroyed.
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Government figures are less than 35 people killed. Nigeria doubtlessly has to protect itself from terrorists, within the law.
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The indisputable facts are that a joint military operation of Nigeria, Niger and Chad took place in Baga. People died, properties were destroyed. The details are in dispute. The central explanation is that security agencies took the fight against terrorists to Baga, 200 kilometres outside Maiduguri.