ISIS fighters
Agents of the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria (ISIS) are scouting Nigeria to recruit youths as fighters for the terrorist group, the federal government has warned.
According to the Coordinator of the National Information Centre and Director-General of the National Orientation Agency (NOA), Mr. Mike Omeri, intelligence reports had shown that three South African nationals were among some of the fighters recruited by ISIS agents operating under the guise of humanitarian support groups for refugees and orphans in Nigeria.
“Nigerians are known the world over to be selfless, hospitable and humanitarian. We believe in the brotherhood of all mankind and no one should be allowed to take advantage of these virtues or turn them into vices,” a statement signed by his Special Adviser, David Akoji read.
“Nigerians are therefore advised to report to security agencies without hesitation, any group or non-governmental agency whose overt or covert activities are suspicious or have tendencies to jeopardise the innocence of our youths and the security of our people wherever they are in the world,” he said.
Omeri however assured the public that the federal government was doing its best to ensure the security of lives and properties of every Nigerian.
“Government is leaving no room to chance in the fight against terror and the protection of lives and property,” he said.
He also urged Nigerians to maintain their confidence in the security efforts of the government and ensure stricter compliance with security tips which are currently running on print and electronic media platforms.
ISIS has been using several platforms, especially the social media to recruit youths worldwide. The terrorist organisation is now beleived to be focused on getting fighters from around the Islamic world and from Africa.
