By Nkechi Eze
The Defence Headquarters has refuted the authenticity of a video currently circulating on social media, falsely portrayed as footage from the recent attack on troops in Marte, Borno State.
According to an official signed statement by Major General MG Kangye, Director, Defence Media Operations, a comprehensive analysis by relevant authorities confirmed that the video in question has no connection to the Marte incident.
The statement explained that the terrain, visual elements, and operational context depicted in the video clearly identify it as a clip from a different incident, originally posted online on 7 December 2020.
The military described the recycling and circulation of the old footage as a deliberate act by criminal elements and terrorist sympathizers to mislead the public, incite fear, and undermine the successes recorded by Nigerian troops.
“For the avoidance of doubt, troops of the Armed Forces of Nigeria in Marte came under attack on Monday, 12 May 2025 at about 0300hrs. However, the troops successfully repelled the terrorists after a fierce gun battle, during which a large number of the assailants were neutralized, while others fled with bullet wounds,” the statement read.
It further noted that in the aftermath of the failed assault, terrorists resorted to pushing out the outdated video clip as propaganda, targeting unsuspecting members of the public.
“This act of misinformation is not only malicious but also a failed attempt to demoralize our gallant troops and undermine the confidence of Nigerians in the Armed Forces,” the statement added.
The military strongly condemned the dissemination of fake content and warned that individuals behind such disinformation campaigns would be identified and prosecuted in accordance with the law.
Reaffirming its commitment to national defence, the statement emphasized that troops in the North East and other operational theatres remain resolute and are making significant progress in dismantling terrorist networks.
The public was urged to disregard the fake video and rely solely on official channels for accurate information concerning military operations.
“The support and cooperation of all Nigerians remain vital in the collective fight against terrorism and all forms of insecurity. Together, we shall overcome,” the statement concluded.
