The Nigerian military has strongly denied reports claiming that 20 soldiers were recently killed in the North East.
Operation Hadin Kai described the circulating images and reports as recycled propaganda. Moreover, the Joint Task Force said the materials were deliberately reshared to create fear and confusion.
The clarification follows viral posts alleging a deadly ambush on troops. However, the military insists no such incident occurred in recent times.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, Lt.-Col. Sani Uba, Media Information Officer of Operation Hadin Kai, addressed what he called a coordinated misinformation effort. According to him, Boko Haram and ISWAP are pushing old photos and outdated news reports to mislead the public.
“One such recycled publication is a 9 July 2020 report by YNaija, which falsely resurfaces with bodies of soldiers and claims to be an ambush on Nigerian soldiers.
“Our fact-check mechanism shows that the report was posted a decade ago.
“These events are being mischievously recirculated to create panic and distort the current security realities in the North East, where the terrorists are currently in disarray.”
The Operation Hadin Kai propaganda rebuttal makes it clear that no recent loss of 20 soldiers has been recorded. Uba stressed that current operations are yielding positive outcomes.
“At no point recently has Operation HADIN KAI lost 20 soldiers.
“The improved capabilities and well-coordinated air and ground assaults on the terrorists are yielding the required results to the disadvantage of the terrorists.
“Contrary to the false narratives being pushed by terrorists and their sympathizers, the operational reality indicates that insurgent elements are in severe disarray following sustained, coordinated air and ground offensives by Operation HADIN KAI.”
Meanwhile, the task force highlighted recent gains across several flashpoints. Within the past week, troops reportedly struck terrorist enclaves in Miyanti, Gajigana, and Gajiram. Scores of fighters were neutralized during those engagements.
Weapons, including anti-aircraft platforms, rocket bombs, machine guns, and rifles, were recovered. In addition, logistics supplies and ₦37 million intended for terrorist financing were intercepted at Chabbal checkpoint.
At Komala in Konduga Local Government Area, sixteen insurgents were neutralized. Bicycles and key logistics items were also seized and destroyed.
According to the statement, terrorists have resorted to misinformation because they cannot withstand battlefield pressure.
The Joint Task Force urged the public and media outlets to verify information before sharing.
“Operation HADIN KAI remains resolute, focused and committed to the total defeat of terrorism and the restoration of lasting peace and stability in the North East,” the statement added.
