The Nigerian Army has dismissed reports of insurgents’ takeover of a military training area in Kontagora, Niger State, describing the claims as “vicious insinuations” intended to incite public fear.
This clarification follows reports alleging that bandits had invaded the camp, causing residents in 23 communities across Kontagora and Mariga to flee.
In a statement issued by the Director of Army Public Relations, Major General Onyema Nwachukwu, on 30 October 2024, the Army expressed concern over the impact of such false reports on the Kontagora and Mariga communities.
“We acknowledge the palpable unease this baseless claim may have stirred within the Kontagora and Mariga communities, as well as Niger State as a whole,” the statement read.
However, it firmly stated, “no credible threat exists in those areas as being peddled,” countering claims made by Honourable Abdullahi Isah, who raised the issue on the floor of the Niger State House of Assembly on 28 October 2024.
The Army clarified that a thorough investigation by its intelligence unit revealed that individuals seen in the area were herders merely searching for grazing grounds.
“No malicious intent was detected, and no hostile actions were observed,” the statement added.
The Army urged the public and political representatives to verify information through official channels to prevent unnecessary panic.
“We strongly urge all concerned parties to approach such matters with caution and verify information through official channels, in this case, the Nigerian Army,” Nwachukwu stated, cautioning that such misinformation could “spread unwarranted fear, engender panic, misdirect valuable resources away from real security priorities, and ultimately aggravate the security situation.”
The Army assured that its training areas remain secure and are well-equipped to address any security threat. It reaffirmed its commitment to protecting lives and property in host communities and across the nation.
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