By Mariam Sanni
Nigerian Army has debunked reports alleging that a military training camp in Kontagora Local Government Area of Niger State had been taken over by insurgents.
Refuting the report in a statement yesterday, Director of Army Public Relations, Major-General Onyema Nwachukwu, described the claim as untrue, misleading and harmful.
The army spokesman noted that it appears that the reports are calculated to incite unnecessary panic in the area.
According to the statement, a thorough investigation by the 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.
“We acknowledge the palpable unease this baseless claim may have stirred within 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 Abdullahi Isah, representing Kontagora II Constituency on the floor of the Niger State House of Assembly on October 28.
“While we appreciate the vigilance of the communities and the member’s commitment to the safety of the people he represents, we strongly urge the 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 neutralise any security threat.
“The Nigerian Army remains steadfast in its commitment to safeguard the lives and property of our host communities and Nigerians in general,” Nwachukwu said.
