In a decisive response to combat the rampant spread of false information, the Nigerian Army (NA) has forcefully rejected a fabricated press release that purportedly originated from the Nigerian Defence Headquarters. The fraudulent document claimed an imminent military operation in the states of Benue, Taraba, Plateau, and Kogi, raising concerns about the malicious intent behind the dissemination of such fake news.
Director of Army Public Relations Brigadier General Onyema Nwachukwu in an official statement expressed profound concern over the orchestrated efforts of what it termed “fifth columnists,” who are actively engaged in misleading the public by distributing inaccurate and deceptive information. The military establishment has unequivocally clarified that the contents of the document are entirely false and part of a wider campaign to sow discord and undermine its constitutional duties.
He said a meticulous scrutiny of the spurious press release uncovered several blatant irregularities. Most notably, the document bore the fictitious title “THE NIGERIA DEFENCE HEADQUARTERS ABUJA SECTOR (1) OPERATION WHIRL STROKE,” a non-existent entity within the Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN). Additionally, the purported rank of “General Operation Commander” was confirmed to be non-existent within the AFN’s organizational structure.
Nwachukwu said the counterfeit press release was riddled with syntactical errors, grammatical lapses, and spelling mistakes that stand in stark contrast to the usual precision of NA press statements.
He said the Nigerian Army, an unwavering guardian of Nigeria’s sovereignty, has a long-standing history of fostering robust civil-military relations with the communities of Benue, Taraba, Plateau, and Kogi states. The NA decries the actions of those seeking to undermine these valuable relationships by insinuating the possibility of extrajudicial acts during supposed operations.
Nwachukwu emphasized its steadfast commitment to transparency and open communication with the public. It has pledged to disseminate accurate information through established media channels. Recognizing the potential harm caused by misinformation, the NA has issued a stern warning to unscrupulous individuals or groups that aim to exploit fake news to exacerbate insecurity in the country.
He urges all law-abiding citizens and those of good conscience to rally behind the Nigerian Army in its ongoing efforts to combat terrorism, insurgency, banditry, and other criminal activities, adding that the Nigerian Army unwavering dedication to safeguarding Nigeria’s security and welfare remains resolute.
