The Defence Headquarters has firmly denied allegations suggesting that a military training camp in Niger State has been seized by militants, reaffirming its commitment to maintaining security in the region.
Concerns were voiced on Tuesday during a session of the Niger State House of Assembly, where representatives raised alarms that militants had taken control of the military camp located in the Kontagora Local Government Area, as well as parts of the Mariga Local Government Area. Abdullahi Isah, the representative for Kontagora II State Constituency, emphasized that the alleged occupation has led to the forced relocation of over 23 farming communities in the vicinity, which have been subjected to frequent and violent attacks by armed groups.
In response to these claims, Maj. Gen. Edward Buba, Director of Defence Media Operations, released a statement on Wednesday asserting that while there is indeed militant activity in the region, no section of the training camp has been ceded to these groups. He highlighted that military operations conducted in the area have effectively constrained the militants’ ability to operate freely.
“The Defence Headquarters is aware of media reports regarding allegations from the Niger State House of Assembly that militants have taken over the Nigerian Army’s military training area in Kontagora LGA,” Buba stated emphatically. “We categorically refute this allegation, which does not accurately reflect the current situation on the ground.”
Buba further clarified that, although troops have encountered militants during their operations in the general area, there has been no loss of territory within the training facility. He assured the public that ongoing clearance operations are actively disrupting militant activities, thereby preventing these groups from operating without restrictions.
Moreover, Buba emphasized the military’s ongoing collaboration with the state government, which aims to restore peace and stability in the region. “Our operations in Niger State are specifically directed against militant threats. Any other characterization of these threats is erroneous,” he noted.
The armed forces remain steadfast in their commitment to enhancing security throughout the state, with a strong focus on eradicating any militant threats wherever they may be hiding, thereby ensuring the safety and security of local communities.
