US might launch drone attacks on terrorists

chika ebuzor

October 2, 2016 12:14 PM

A former DSS Director, Mike Ejiofor has also expressed worry at the alleged plan by the US.

The United States might soon be hitting hideouts of the dreaded

Following the report, member of the American Society of Industrial Security, Prof. Femi Adegbulu, has warned that there might be collateral damage.

Adegbulu said “There are two sets of drones, one for surveillance and the other for attacks. A reconnaissance drone is used for intelligence gathering, while the other kind of drone is used for attacks. There is no 100 per cent accuracy in warfare.

“You lose lives, money, time, and resources. The possibility of collateral damage cannot be ruled out, especially since Boko Haram terrorists are known to use humans as shields when attacked.”

According to Punch, the US is constructing a drone base in Niger, to enable it attack Islamists in Nigeria and other North-African countries where they are based.

The Intercept also reports that the project will cost the US $100m to complete and commission for launch.

According to the report, “The only country in the region willing to allow a US base for MQ-9 Reapers — a newer, larger, and potentially more lethal model than the venerable Predator drone — Niger has positioned itself to be the key regional hub for US military operations, with Agadez serving as the premier outpost for launching intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance missions against a plethora of terror groups.”

Adding that “The top MILCON [military construction] project for USAFRICOM is located in Agadez, Niger to construct a C-17 and MQ-9 capable airfield.

“Remotely Piloted Aircraft presence in Africa supports operations against seven (Department of State)-designated foreign terrorist organisations.

“Moving operations to Agadez aligns persistent ISR to current and emerging threats over Niger and Chad, supports French regionalisation and extends range to cover Libya and Nigeria.”

A former Director, Department of State Services, Mike Ejiofor has also expressed worry at the reported plan by the US.

Ejiofor said “I am worried that the US military will be making such efforts to launch attacks against Boko Haram from outside Nigeria. If the US did not get the nod from the Federal Government to establish its drone base in the country, how could the US military launch attacks against Boko Haram from Niger Republic?”

According to Mr Oluseyi Soremekun, UN National Information Officer, Boko Haram has killed 611 teachers,while rendering 19,000 others homeless between 2009 and 2015.

chika ebuzor