The Nigerian Army has officially dismissed recent reports suggesting that insurgents have taken control of a military training area in Kontagora, Niger State.
The reports, which have caused unease among local communities, were deemed false and misleading, according to a statement released by Major General Onyema Nwachukwu, Director of Army Public Relations, on Wednesday.
Major General Nwachukwu labeled the circulating reports as “untrue, misleading, and harmful,” adding that they appear calculated to provoke unnecessary alarm among residents in the area.
The Army’s intelligence unit conducted a thorough investigation into the alleged insurgent activity and confirmed that the individuals observed near the Kontagora training area were herders seeking grazing land for their livestock, with no evidence of hostile intent.
“No malicious intent was detected, and no hostile actions were observed,” the statement read.
“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.”
The Army’s statement came in response to comments made by Honourable Abdullahi Isah, representing the Kontagora II Constituency, on the floor of the Niger State House of Assembly on October 28, 2024, which suggested insurgent activities in the area.
However, the Army clarified that no credible threat exists, advising the public to remain calm and refrain from acting on unverified information.
While commending the vigilance of local communities and appreciating the honorable member’s dedication to public safety, the Army urged all parties to rely on official channels, specifically the Nigerian Army, for accurate information regarding security matters.
The statement further warned that such misinformation has the potential to incite fear, divert essential resources from genuine security concerns, and worsen the security situation.
“Our training areas remain secured, fortified, and designed to swiftly neutralize any security threat,” assured Major General Nwachukwu.
“The Nigerian Army remains steadfast in its commitment to safeguarding the lives and property of our host communities and Nigerians in general.”