- Halimah Olamide
The Nigerian Army has debunked allegations of its Military Training Camp in Area in Kontagora, Niger State being invaded by insurgents.
This was contained in a statement by the Army’s spokesperson, Onyema Nwachukwu, on Wednesday.
This is following the report of Honorable Abullah Isah representing the Kontagora II Constituency that bandits invaded the training area, displacing residents from 23 communities across Kontagora and Mariga.
“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.
“However, we wish to clarify that no credible threat exists in those areas as being peddled, contrary to the information presented by Honourable Abdullahi Isah, representing the Kontagora II Constituency on the floor of the Niger State House of Assembly on 28 October 2024.
According to the statement the reports are utterly misleading and harmful, as it appears calculated to incite unnecessary panic in the neighbourhood.
“A thorough investigation by our intelligence unit confirmed that the individuals observed in the area were herders seeking grazing grounds for their herds.
“No malicious intent was detected, and no hostile actions were observed.”
The statement urged all concerned parties to approach such matters with caution and verify information through official channels, in this case, the Nigerian Army.
“Undoubtedly, misinformation of this nature has the potential to spread unwarranted fear, engender panic, misdirect valuable resources away from real security priorities, and ultimately aggravate the security situation.
“Our training areas remain secured, fortified, and designed to swiftly neutralize any security threat.”
It reiterated its commitment to safeguarding the lives and property of our host communities and Nigerians in general.