The Defence Headquarters (DHQ), on Wednesday, categorically denied reports of a terrorist takeover of the Nigerian Army Military Training Area in Kontagora Local Government Area of Niger State.
In a statement issued in Abuja, Director of Defence Media Operations Maj.-Gen. Edward Buba described the claims as “incorrect and inaccurate with the realities on the ground.”.
This rebuttal from the Military came against the backdrop of an alarm raised by the Niger State House of Assembly over the occupation of Nigeria’s largest military training camp in Kontagora Local Government Area by bandits.
The lawmakers said the bandits’ activities had displaced 23 communities around the Nagwamase military cantonment in the Kontagora local council headquarters.
The matter was brought to the attention of the lawmakers through a motion of urgent public importance moved by the member representing Kontagora 11 constituency, Abdullahi Isah, during a plenary on Tuesday.
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Reacting, the DHQ emphasized that while troops have encountered terrorists in the area, no part of the training area has been surrendered. “Troops constantly eliminate the threat posed by terrorists crisscrossing the vast area. Our clearance operations in the area have denied the terrorists freedom of action,” the statement read.
The military high command reassured that its ongoing operations in Niger State are specifically targeted against terrorists, and that it is working closely with the Niger State government to enhance security for citizens and their properties.
“Our troops are not relenting to ensure the destruction of these terrorists wherever they may be hiding,” the statement emphasized. Nigerian Army spokesman Maj.-Gen. Onyema Nwachukwu added, “Our training areas remain secured, fortified, and designed to swiftly neutralize any security threat.”
The DHQ dismissed reports of bandits invading the military training area and displacing residents from 23 communities across Kontagora and Mariga as “untrue” and “misleading.”
It noted that an investigation revealed that individuals observed in the area were herders seeking grazing grounds, with no malicious intent detected.
The Nigerian Army reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding lives and properties. “We acknowledge the palpable unease this baseless claim may have stirred, but we wish to clarify that no credible threat exists,” the DHQ stated.
The military urged citizens to disregard alarming reports and assured of continued protection.
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