The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has dismissed allegations that terrorists have taken over a military training camp in Niger State.
News About Nigeria reported that the claims arose after the Niger State House of Assembly expressed concerns about bandits allegedly occupying the camp in Kontagora Local Government Area and parts of Mariga Local Government Area.
During a recent session, Abdullahi Isah, the representative for Kontagora II State Constituency, stated that over 23 farming communities near the camp have been forced to evacuate due to frequent gunmen attacks since the alleged occupation.
In response, Maj. Gen. Edward Buba, Director of Defence Media Operations, released a statement on Wednesday stating that while bandit activity exists in the region, no part of the training camp has been compromised.
He said that military operations have effectively limited the terrorists’ activities in the area.
He added that troops have consistently conducted operations to counteract terrorist threats, ensuring that the training area remains secure.
“The Defence Headquarters’ attention has been drawn to media reports that the Niger State House of Assembly alleged the Nigerian Army’s military training area in Kontagora LGA has been taken over by bandits. This headquarters unequivocally states that this allegation is incorrect and does not reflect the reality on the ground.
“While troops have encountered terrorists during operations in the general area, not an inch of the training area has been ceded to them. Indeed, our clearance operations continuously counteract terrorist threats, denying them freedom of action in the area,” Buba said.
Buba also mentioned the military’s collaboration with the Niger State Government to restore peace and enhance security in the region.
“Our ongoing operations, particularly in Niger State, are directed against terrorists. Any other classification of these threats is erroneous,” he stated.
