The Nigerian Army High Command has debunked speculations that troops were on a revenge mission in Abia State, following the alleged killing of a soldier.
Army spokesperson, Brigadier General Mohammed Yerima, who dispelled the rumour in Abuja, on Monday, noted that no soldier was killed.
Yerima said the attention of the Army was drawn to a story on social media, which claimed that troops are on vengeance mission in some communities in Abia State following the death of six soldiers in a clash with ESN/IPOB militia.
He noted that the story further alleged that as a result, residents of Elu, Amangwu, and Amaekpu in Ohafia Local Government Area embarked on a mass exodus out of fear.
He said: “The army wishes to debunk 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.
“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 at restoring socio-economic activities, which were hitherto disrupted by criminal activities of IPOB/ESN elements who attack security agents and government infrastructures.
“Troops of the Nigerian Army are working in conjunction with personnel of Nigeria Police and other security agencies leveraging on timely and accurate intelligence provided by patriotic citizens, tirelessly to restore normalcy to troubled areas and to rid the state of criminal elements.
“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.”
