The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has dismissed claims alleging the existence of a terrorist base in the South-West geopolitical zone.
The DHQ assured Nigerians that ongoing military operations are strictly focused on rescuing abducted victims and neutralizing criminal elements.
In a statement on Tuesday, the DHQ Director of Defence Media Operations, Major General Edward Buba reacted to a widely circulated video alleging that terrorists had established a camp in the region, particularly around the Abuja-Keffi axis and adjacent forests leading into the South-West.
Buba described the claims as false, misleading, and an attempt by mischief-makers to cause panic among citizens.
He emphasized that the military, in collaboration with other security agencies, maintains a dominant presence across the country’s forests and highways, continuously conducting clearance operations to deny terrorists any permanent foothold.
According to the DHQ, recent troop deployments and tactical maneuvers are part of routine, intelligence-led operations aimed at dislodging bandits, kidnappers, and economic saboteurs.
The statement noted that the military’s surveillance architecture remains highly active, ensuring that any gathering of hostile elements is immediately intercepted and neutralized before it poses a threat to public safety.
While urging the public to ignore the speculative video, the Defence Headquarters called on Nigerians to remain vigilant and report suspicious movements or activities to security operatives.
The military reiterated its unwavering commitment to protecting the territorial integrity of the nation and ensuring the safety of lives and property across all geopolitical zones.