The Nigerian Army has categorically rejected reports suggesting that bandits overran its troops and made off with six General Purpose Machine Guns (GPMGs) and over 30,000 rounds of ammunition in Obanla, Kwara State.
A recent report claimed that military units were ambushed by bandits who were allegedly tipped off about the Army’s upcoming operations. The report further stated that the bandits seized firearms and ammunition during the attack.
However, the Army swiftly responded, labelling the report as false and misleading. Lieutenant Colonel Polycarp Okoye, Deputy Director of Army Public Relations for the 2 Division, clarified in a statement on Sunday that the troops of the 148 Battalion (Rear), currently engaged in clearance operations across Kogi and Kwara States, had actually made significant progress in their operations.
“The Nigerian Army strongly dismisses the online publication claiming that bandits overran troops and carted away military hardware. Troops of 148 Battalion have, in fact, achieved operational success, neutralising two armed bandits and recovering two AK-47 rifles along the Kwara-Ekiti border,” Okoye stated.
He also assured the public that at no point were Army positions overrun or any weapons lost to criminal elements. “This publication is a fabrication meant to mislead the public and diminish the morale of our dedicated soldiers,” he added.
The Army’s statement stressed that the military’s commitment to eradicating criminal activities in Kogi, Kwara, and neighboring states remains unwavering.
Recent security operations have intensified in the North-Central region, where armed groups have increasingly targeted rural communities and highways. This includes last week’s deadly raid in Oke-Ode, Kwara State, where suspected bandits killed 15 people, including local hunters, vigilantes, and a community chief.
The authorities urged the public to disregard the false reports and continue supporting military operations with credible intelligence to ensure the safety and security of the region.
