The Defence Headquarters has dismissed claims that terrorists have taken over a military training camp in Niger State, following allegations raised by the Niger State House of Assembly.
On Tuesday, during the House’s sitting, legislators voiced concerns that bandits had overrun a camp in the Kontagora Local Government Area and spread into parts of Mariga Local Government Area, leading to the displacement of nearby farming communities.
Abdullahi Isah, representing Kontagora II State Constituency, highlighted the situation during a motion of urgent public importance, alleging that the encroachment by bandits had forced over 23 communities to relocate due to repeated attacks.
The lawmaker described how residents, particularly those near the camp, had fled their homes to escape the escalating violence.
In a swift response, Maj. Gen. Edward Buba, Director of Defence Media Operations, refuted the claims on Wednesday, clarifying that the military had not lost control of any part of the camp.
Buba acknowledged the presence of bandits activity in the area but emphasized that military operations have been preventing the terrorists from establishing a foothold. He stated that clearance operations are continuously conducted to counter threats in the area.
Buba further reassured that the military is actively collaborating with the Niger State Government to restore stability. He explained that recent military efforts are specifically targeting terrorists in the region, dismissing any broader interpretation of the threat as inaccurate.
The Defence Headquarters underscored that its troops remain committed to eliminating terrorist elements and enhancing security in Niger State, reaffirming that operations will persist until all threats in the region are neutralized.
