The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) yesterday assured the people of Benue State of adequate protection of lives and property. The assurance was contained in a statement signed by NAF Director of Public Relations & Information, Air Commodore Dele Alonge.

He said: “It is instructive to note that with the recent successes recorded by the military in the North East against the Boko Haram Terrorists (BHT), intelligence reports revealed that due to the fierce attack on the sect, the BHT elements are presently in disarray and looking for soft targets to strike especially military installations.

“Thus, the NAF has a responsibility to secure its perimeter fence to forestall any pre-emptive attack within and around the Air Force Base Makurdi. It was with the intention to fortify the Base that the Nigerian Air Force recently carried out a cordon and search operation within its Area of Responsibility. In carrying out this action, there was no destruction of houses or displacement of persons as reported by some media houses. Therefore, we wish to state unequivocally that the Nigerian Air Force is a humane, sensitive and rational organisation that does not trample on the rights of law abiding citizens. They are therefore advised to go about their normal business without any fear of intimidation.”

•Photo shows Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshall SB Abubakar.