The Defence Headquarters has dismissed reports that a military training camp in Niger State has fallen into the hands of bandits, following concerns raised by the Niger State House of Assembly.
According to The PUNCH, the director of Defence Media Operations, Maj. Gen. Edward Buba clarified that while there is ongoing bandit activity in parts of Kontagora and Mariga Local Government Areas, no section of the training facility in Kontagora has been taken over by armed groups.
“This allegation is incorrect and does not reflect the reality on the ground,” Buba stated.
Concerns emerged Tuesday when Abdullahi Isah, representing Kontagora II State Constituency, moved a motion in the Niger State Assembly, reporting that bandits allegedly occupied areas surrounding the military camp.
He noted that more than 23 farming communities near the camp have been displaced due to repeated attacks.
However, the Defence Headquarters insisted that military forces have maintained control over the area, with Maj. Gen. Buba affirming that ongoing operations are effectively countering the threats.
“Our clearance operations continuously counteract terrorist threats, denying them freedom of action in the area,” he explained.
Emphasizing the military’s efforts to stabilize the region, Buba added, “The armed forces are working closely with the Niger State Government to enhance security across the state. Our troops remain steadfast in ensuring the complete elimination of these terrorists wherever they may be hiding.”
In closing, he underscored the importance of maintaining accurate classifications of security threats in the region, asserting, “Any other classification of these threats is erroneous.”
