Nigerian Army has debunked reports that troops are on a vengeance mission in some communities in Ohafia Local Government Area, Abia State.
Gatekeepers News reports that the Army was accused of vengeance through social media, following the death of six soldiers in a clash with ESN/IPOB terrorists.
According to the report, residents of Elu, Amangwu, and Amaekpu in Ohafia LGA embarked on mass evacuation out of fear.
In its reaction, the Nigerian army through a press release signed by Director Army Public Relations, Brigadier General Mohammed Yerima, regarded the allegation as a “baseless fabrication aimed at not only tarnishing the good image of the NA but to create distrust between the public and security agents in the state.”
He added that “The true position is that troops carried out routine clearance operations in line with the rules of engagement and respect for fundamental human rights of the citizens aimed restoring socio-economic activities which were hitherto disrupted by criminal activities of IPOB/ESN elements who attack security agents and government infrastructures.”
Brigadier General Yerima assured that the troops are working with the Nigerian Police Force and other security agencies to restore normalcy to troubled areas of the state.
He added that the force is also aimed at getting rid of criminal elements within the state.
“Consequently, we wish to reassure the good people of Abia State of the safety of their lives and property and also urge them to continue to report suspicious movements and activities of strange individuals or groups in their vicinity to the nearest security agency for prompt action,” he said.
