Amanze Chinonye
The Nigerian Army has dismissed as false and misleading reports that armed bandits overran troops and seized weapons in Obanla, Kwara State, describing the publication as a fabrication aimed at undermining troop morale and public trust in the military.
The Army’s reaction followed an earlier report by Sahara Reporters, which claimed that gunmen ambushed a joint task force in Obanla, carting away six General Purpose Machine Guns (GPMGs) and over 30,000 rounds of ammunition. The online platform further alleged that the Nigerian Air Force withheld air support due to inter-agency friction during the incident.
In an official statement signed by Lieutenant Colonel Polycarp Okoye, Deputy Director, Army Public Relations, 2 Division, the military refuted the report, insisting that no troops were overrun and no weapons were lost.
Join our WhatsApp Channel“Contrary to the sensational claims, troops of 148 Battalion (Rear) conducting clearance operations across Kogi and Kwara States have continued to record significant operational successes,” the statement said.
The Army disclosed that in a recent engagement along the Kwara–Ekiti border axis, troops mounted a blocking position, neutralized two armed bandits, and recovered two brand new AK-47 rifles.
“At no time were Army positions overrun, nor was any cache of weapons or ammunition lost to criminal elements, as mischievously reported by the online platform,” the statement added.
“The publication is a fabrication designed to mislead the public and undermine the morale of gallant troops diligently working to restore peace and stability in the region.
READ ALSO: Bandits Sack Oke-Ode Yoruba Community In Kwara, North-Central Nigeria
Blood on Their Hands: Nigeria’s Security Nightmare Unfolds
The statement, dated October 5, 2025, further reaffirmed the Army’s commitment to dismantling criminal networks across Kogi, Kwara, and adjoining states, while urging the public to disregard “false reports” and provide credible information that could aid ongoing operations.
While the Army maintains that all its bases in Kwara remain secure, Sahara Reporters has stood by its earlier claims, citing unnamed security sources who allege that the ambush did occur and that air support was delayed. The publication also accused the Kwara State Government of circulating old footage from earlier airstrikes in Borno State as proof of current operations an allegation that has not been independently verified.
The dispute comes amid escalating banditry in north-central Nigeria, where coordinated attacks have displaced rural communities and left dozens of vigilantes and forest guards dead across Kwara, Kogi, and Niger States. Security experts say the zone’s proximity to forests along the Niger-Kainji corridor has made it a transit hub for armed groups fleeing military offensives in the northwest.
Analysts note that while the Nigerian Army has intensified clearance operations under Operation Whirl Stroke II, growing public skepticism and conflicting media reports continue to strain civil–military relations.
Security Analyst Tunde Ogundele told Prime Business Africa that such unverified reports “can quickly undermine public confidence if not addressed transparently,” urging security agencies to maintain consistent communication with the press to prevent misinformation.
The Nigerian Army, meanwhile, says it will sustain ongoing operations until all criminal networks in the region are neutralized, stressing that its troops remain “resolute and professional” in restoring peace to affected communities.
Amanze Chinonye is a rising star in the literary world, weaving captivating stories that transport readers to the vibrant landscapes of Nigeria. With a unique voice that blends tradition with modernity, Chinonye's writing is a masterful exploration of the human condition, delving into themes of identity, culture, and social justice. Through her words, Chinonye paints vivid portraits of everyday Nigerian life, from the bustling markets of Lagos to the quiet villages of the countryside. With a keen eye for detail and a deep understanding of the complexities of Nigerian society, Chinonye's writing is both a testament to the country's rich cultural heritage and a powerful call to action for a brighter future. As a writer, Chinonye is a true storyteller, using her dexterity to educate, inspire, and uplift readers around the world.
