By Nkechi Eze
The Nigerian Army has strongly dismissed as false, misleading, and malicious a recent online report alleging that bandits overran its troops and carted away six General Purpose Machine Guns (GPMGs) and over 30,000 rounds of ammunition in Obanla, Kwara State.
In an official statement signed by the Deputy Director, Army Public Relations, 2 Division, Lieutenant Colonel Polycarp Okoye, the Army described the publication as a baseless fabrication aimed at discrediting the ongoing military operations and demoralizing the troops who are working tirelessly to ensure peace and stability in the region.
According to Lieutenant Colonel Okoye, contrary to the sensational claims by the online platform, troops of 148 Battalion (Rear) under 2 Division, who are currently engaged in clearance operations across parts of Kogi and Kwara States, have continued to record significant operational successes.
He disclosed that in a recent engagement, the troops mounted a strong blocking position along the Kwara–Ekiti border axis, where they successfully neutralized two armed bandits and recovered two brand new AK-47 rifles from the criminals.
“At no time were Army positions overrun, nor was any cache of weapons or ammunition lost to criminal elements, as mischievously reported by the online platform,” Lieutenant Colonel Okoye clarified. “The publication is nothing but a fabrication designed to mislead the public and undermine the morale of gallant troops diligently working to restore peace and stability in the region.”
He further reassured the public of the Nigerian Army’s unwavering commitment to ensuring that all forms of criminality are decisively dealt with across the country.
“The Nigerian Army remains fully committed to safeguarding the territorial integrity of Nigeria and ensuring the safety of all citizens. Members of the public are therefore urged to disregard the false report and continue to support the military with timely and credible information to aid ongoing operations,” the statement read.
Lieutenant Colonel Okoye added that the Army will sustain its current operational tempo until all criminal networks and hideouts across Kogi, Kwara, and adjoining states are dismantled.
The Army, he stressed, will not be distracted by unfounded reports but will remain focused on its constitutional mandate to protect lives, property, and national security interests.
