The Nigerian Army has reassurance that there is no credible threat or takeover by insurgents in the Kontagora and Mariga communities, contrary to Honourable Abdullahi Isah's representing the Kontagora II Constituency claims on the floor of the Niger State House of Assembly on 28 October 2024 that insurgents have taken over a Military Training Area in Kontagora Niger State.
In a press statement signed by the Director Army Public Relations, Major General Onyema Nwachukwu on Wednesday, said while the Nigerian Army appreciate the vigilance of the communities and the honourable member's commitment to the safety of the people he represents, they strongly urge all 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.
"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.
"Reports purporting an invasion of the military training area by alleged bandits and the subsequent displacement of residents from 23 communities across Kontagora and Mariga are not only untrue, but are utterly misleading and harmful, as it appears calculated to incite unnecessary panic in the neighbourhood." he said
General Nwachukwu pointed out that a thorough investigation by Army 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.
"Our training areas remain secured, fortified, and designed to swiftly neutralize any security threat. The Nigerian Army remains steadfast in its commitment to safeguarding the lives and property of our host communities and Nigerians in general." he added