Residents of Mansur in Alkeleri Local Government Area of Bauchi State have returned to their homes after months of displacement, following successful military operations that cleared terrorists from the area.
The return, which took place on Wednesday, April 22, 2026, was marked by widespread celebration as villagers trooped back en masse to reclaim their ancestral homes after nearly two months in exile.
Mansur community had been deserted since February 26, 2026, when armed terrorists attacked the village, forcing residents to flee for safety. During the period, homes were abandoned and farmlands left uncultivated.
According to the Nigerian Army, the breakthrough came through a series of coordinated operations, including Operation BUGUN KARKANDA III and its follow-up, Operation WUTAN DAJI, both aimed at dislodging террорист elements from their strongholds.
“The operations successfully cleared terrorists from several key locations, including the Dajin Madam Forest in Plateau State and Kumbodoro Forest in Taraba State,” the statement said.
It added that other areas secured during the operations include Yankari Game Reserve, Bogwas and Rimi in Bauchi State, as well as Odere Forest, Shirnagol, Wanka and Kukarlwa in Plateau State.
“In Taraba State, Kumbodoro town and Angwan Jauro Sule were also secured, ensuring that previously affected communities could begin the process of returning home,” the statement further noted.
The Army explained that following the clearance phase, operations transitioned into a consolidation stage, which involves handing over liberated communities to relevant security agencies and government bodies to maintain law and order.
“This phase also facilitates the safe return of displaced persons to their ancestral homes,” the statement said.
Scenes of joy were witnessed in Mansur as residents, including men, women and children, sang and danced back into the community. Many were seen inspecting their homes and clearing overgrown vegetation from their compounds.
Community leaders commended the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, for what they described as a timely intervention that restored peace to the area.
“The return of our people marks the beginning of a new chapter for Mansur,” a community leader said, expressing optimism about sustained security in the area.
For many residents, the presence of soldiers on patrol now offers a renewed sense of safety and reassurance. #Securitynewsalert.com
