By HeapNews
The Nigerian Army has dismissed recent reports alleging that insurgents have seized control of a military training area in Kontagora, Niger State. The Army describes these claims, circulating in some media outlets, as “vicious insinuations” with no basis in reality. The rumors have reportedly raised anxiety among residents in the Kontagora and Mariga communities, as well as across Niger State.
In a statement addressing these concerns, the Nigerian Army clarified that a thorough investigation has shown that no credible threat exists in the area. The statement, issued on October 28, 2024, emphasizes that “no hostile actions were observed” and that the individuals seen in the area were herders seeking grazing grounds rather than any insurgent group.
“We acknowledge the palpable unease this baseless claim may have stirred within the Kontagora and Mariga communities,” the statement read. “However, we wish to clarify that no credible threat exists in those areas as being peddled, contrary to the information presented by Honourable Abdullahi Isah, representing the Kontagora II Constituency on the floor of the Niger State House of Assembly.”
The Army’s response follows a recent address by Hon. Abdullahi Isah, who reportedly voiced concerns over an alleged insurgent presence that he claimed had displaced residents from 23 communities in the region. The Army, however, strongly refutes these allegations, stating that such misinformation could lead to unwarranted fear and divert resources from addressing real security issues.
“Reports purporting an invasion of the military training area by alleged bandits… are not only untrue but utterly misleading and harmful, as it appears calculated to incite unnecessary panic in the neighbourhood,” the Army emphasized.
In an appeal to both the community and media outlets, the Nigerian Army encouraged all parties to verify security information through official channels before making public statements that might escalate local concerns.
“Our training areas remain secured, fortified, and designed to swiftly neutralize any security threat,” the statement reassured. “The Nigerian Army remains steadfast in its commitment to safeguarding the lives and property of our host communities and Nigerians in general.”
The Army expressed appreciation for the vigilance of local communities and the commitment of representatives like Hon. Isah to community safety. However, it cautioned that inaccurate reports could inadvertently compromise security efforts in the region, warning, “Misinformation of this nature has the potential to spread unwarranted fear… and ultimately aggravate the security situation.”