Military Dares Asari Dokubo to ‘Battlefield Test’ After Ex-Militant Threatens to Shoot Down Helicopter

The Defence Spokesman further clarified that addressing such threats from Asari Dokubo does not fall exclusively within the purview of the military, noting that other security agencies are constitutionally empowered to handle issues of internal security.

Abuja, Nigeria – The Defence Headquarters has issued a stern challenge to former militant leader Asari Dokubo, inviting him to come to the battlefield to experience the military’s capabilities firsthand.

This comes after Dokubo claimed on October 5 that he could shoot down a military helicopter flying over his residence, further asserting his ability to contend with the Nigerian military.

In a strong rebuttal, the Director of Defence Media Operations, Maj Gen Edward Buba, dismissed Dokubo’s comments as “laughable,” emphasizing the professionalism and restraint of the Nigerian Armed Forces. Buba noted that the military operates within a democratic framework and would not react impulsively to such remarks.

“Our mandate is clear — to confront him on the battlefield and neutralize him if he shows up,” Maj Gen Buba stated. “He should come to the battlefield and see if he really has the capability he claims. We are professionals and will not act solely on someone’s comments without due consideration. This is not a banana republic.”

The Defence Spokesman further clarified that addressing such threats does not fall exclusively within the purview of the military, noting that other security agencies are constitutionally empowered to handle issues of internal security.

Buba also reiterated that the military’s focus remains on combating terrorism in various regions of Nigeria, describing the so-called bandits in the northwest and northeast as terrorists. He highlighted the military’s recent successes, citing the neutralization of over 300 terrorist commanders and numerous foot soldiers in the last three quarters.

“Our operations are aimed at weakening the fighting capabilities of these terrorists. As you can see from the brief provided, we’ve made significant progress, recovering a large number of weapons and ammunition,” he noted.

The Defence Headquarters has called on other security agencies to take appropriate measures to address the matter, underscoring its commitment to maintaining peace and stability in the country.