Following recent reports and viral claims on social media alleging that the Nigerian Army was demolishing civilian homes along the Zaria-Kaduna highway, I joined a team of journalists and bloggers on a fact-finding visit to Jaji Military Cantonment (JMC) on Thursday, 24 August 2025, base on the invitation of the Corps Commander Infantry, Major General U.A. Yusuf.
Our findings revealed a very different reality from what had been portrayed online.
Contrary to public claims, the individuals affected many of whom are retired military personnel were illegally occupying land within the cantonment. Investigations showed that most had been compensated years ago and formally instructed to vacate the property. Despite this, they remained on the land, with some constructing additional structures without authorization.
More alarmingly, it was discovered that portions of Army land had been sold by some of these criminal individuals to a Chinese firm for mining activities without any approval from military authorities. Surprisingly, mining operations had already begun prior to the Army’s intervention.
During our visit to the affected areas, we observed that the settlements had also become a haven for suspected criminal elements and political thugs. law enforcement reportedly avoided the area to effect arrest of criminal elements due to its sensitive location within a military zone.
The ongoing demolition and clearance exercise, therefore, is a lawful effort by the Nigerian Army to reclaim its property, restore order, sanity and safeguard national security. Major General Yusuf’s leadership in JMC in addressing the issue appears both necessary and timely.
We must encourage importance of verifying information before sharing, especially on sensitive matters involving national security. I urge the public and media professionals to engage in responsible reporting and, where possible, visit JMC to see the situation firsthand.
Deji Adesogan is a security analyst and digital communications expert. He writes from Kaduna and can be reached via adesoganmedia@gmail.com.
