The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has refuted recent claims and videos circulating online that purportedly show bandits in Zamfara State hijacking two armoured vehicles, terrorists conducting mass burials of civilians, and the abduction of over 150 residents in Sokoto State.
In response to the videos, the Director of Defence Media Operations, Major General Buba Edward, stated on Monday that the videos are fabricated and do not reflect recent events in Nigeria.
Regarding the alleged hijacking of armoured vehicles, Major General Edward explained that the vehicles in question were immobilized due to the swampy terrain while troops were attempting to outflank terrorists near Kwashabawa Village in Zamfara State.
He clarified that the vehicles were demobilized by the troops to prevent them from falling into the hands of the terrorists. The incident occurred on August 29 during a combat operation conducted by troops of Operation HADARIN DAJI.
The DHQ also addressed a video showing a mass burial, which was falsely attributed to Nigeria. Edward confirmed that the video depicts events from another African country currently facing terrorism, not Nigeria. He emphasized that such incidents have not occurred within Nigerian borders.
Furthermore, the claim that over 150 residents were kidnapped in Sokoto State was dismissed as a deliberate attempt by terrorists to undermine the recent successes of Nigerian troops. Edward described this claim as a desperate move by terrorists to spread misinformation and create confusion.
The Defence Headquarters urged the public to be cautious of misleading propaganda and fake news propagated by terrorist groups. Edward stressed that while such misinformation is common in conflict situations, the armed forces are committed to countering these tactics and maintaining operational effectiveness.
The DHQ reiterated its commitment to achieving strategic objectives and securing the country despite the challenges posed by war and propaganda.