BY USMAN MOHAMMED, OCTOBER 30, 2024 | 07:51 PM
Nigerian Army has denied recent allegations suggesting that insurgents have taken control of a military training area in Kontagora, Niger State.
The statement was issued in response to claims made by Honourable Abdullahi Isah, reps member representing Kontagora II Constituency, during a session in the Niger State House of Assembly on October 28, 2024.
The Army, in a statement by Major General Onyema Nwachukwu, spokesman, assured the public that the reports of an insurgent invasion and the displacement of residents from 23 communities in Kontagora and Mariga are unfounded and misleading.
'No credible threat exists in those areas as being peddled,' the statement clarified, acknowledging that the rumors have caused concern among residents and communities in the affected region.
A thorough investigation conducted by the Army’s intelligence unit confirmed that the individuals sighted near the training grounds were herders passing through the area in search of grazing land.
'No malicious intent was detected, and no hostile actions were observed,' the Army reported, emphasizing that these individuals posed no threat to the surrounding communities or to the military installation itself.
While commending the vigilance of the local communities and appreciating the honourable member's dedication to public safety, the Army urged all concerned to approach such sensitive issues cautiously and to confirm information through official channels to prevent the spread of misinformation.
'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,' said Major General Nwachukwu.
The Army reassured the public that all military training areas remain secure, well-fortified, and prepared to swiftly address any real threat to the safety of local residents and national security.
Conflict Reporting is dangerous and risky. Our reporters constantly face life-threatening challenges, sometimes surviving ambushes, kidnap attempts and attacks by the whiskers as they travel and go into communities to get authentic and firsthand information. But we dare it every day, nonetheless, in order to keep you informed of the true situation of the victims, the trends in the conflicts and ultimately help in peace building processes. But these come at huge cost to us. We are therefore appealing to you to help our cause by donating to us through any of the following means. You can also donate working tools, which are even more primary to our work. We thank you sincerely as you help our cause.
Alternatively, you can also email us on
info@yen.ng or message us
via +234 803 931 7767