Bandits didn’t take over our training camp, Army clarifies
The Army headquarters has denied claims of terrorists and bandits invasion of its military training camp in Kotangora, Niger State with subsequent displacement of 23 communities near the camp fleeing their villages, as untrue and calculated to incite unnecessary panic in the neighbourhood.
The Army said, “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.
“Our training areas remain secured, fortified, and designed to swiftly neutralize any security threat.
Major General Onyema Nwachukwu, Director of Army Public Relations made this known after the Hon Member representing the constituency, in the state House of Assembly, Hon Abdullahi Isah raised the alarm of bandits’ takeover of the camp.
Nwachukwu said, “The Nigerian Army is aware of the vicious insinuations circulating in the media, alleging that insurgents have taken over a Military Training Area in Kontagora, Niger State.
“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 Hon Abdullahi Isah, representing the Kontagora II Constituency on the floor of the Niger State House of Assembly on 28 October 2024.
“Reports purporting an invasion of the military training area by alleged bandits and the subsequent displacement of residents from 23 communities across Kontagora and Mariga are not only untrue but are utterly misleading and harmful, as it appear 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.
“While we appreciate the vigilance of the communities and the honourable member’s commitment to the safety of the people he represents, we strongly urge 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.
“The Nigerian Army remains steadfast in its commitment to safeguarding the lives and property of our host communities and Nigerians in general.”
