ABIA: Alleged Killing Of Soldiers In Ohafia, Army Debunks Report

It had been alleged that the army was on a vengeance mission in the area following the death of six soldiers after a clash with Eastern Security Network (ESN)and members of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), on Saturday, June 12.

Residents of Elu, Amangwu and Amaekpu in Ohafia LGA had as a result of that, reportedly deserted their habitats out of fear.

Reacting, the Nigerian Army, in a statement released by the Director, Army Public Relations, Brigadier General Mohammed Yerima, on Monday, June 14, said the report was false.

It added that they were not on any vengeance mission in the area as purported.

The statement read in part;

"The Nigerian Army wishes to debunk the allegation as a baseless fabrication aimed at not only tarnishing the good image of the Nigerian Army but to create distrust between the public and security agents in the state.

"The true position is that troops carried out routine clearance operations in line with the rules of engagement and respect for fundamental human rights of the citizens aimed to restore socio-economic activities which were hitherto disrupted by criminal activities of IPOB/ESN elements who attack security agents and government infrastructures.

"Troops of the Nigerian Army working in conjunction with personnel of Nigerian Police and other security agencies leveraging on timely and accurate intelligence provided by patriotic citizens, are working tirelessly to restore normalcy to troubled areas and to rid the state of criminal elements.

"Consequently, we wish to reassure the good people of Abia State of the safety of their lives and property and also urge them to continue to report suspicious movements and activities of strange individuals or groups in their vicinity to the nearest security agency for prompt action.ÔÇØ