The Nigerian Defence Headquarters has stated that the recent kidnapping incident in Oyo State was carried out by terrorists displaced from other regions of the country following intensified military operations against armed groups.
The Military High Command made the clarification on Thursday while reacting to what it described as “mischievous and misleading publications” concerning comments attributed to the military on the classification of terrorists and criminal elements operating in the South-West.
According to the military, reports suggesting that the Defence Headquarters referred to terrorists operating in the region as ordinary criminals were inaccurate and misrepresented its position.
Speaking on the issue, Onoja said it was incorrect to portray the military as downplaying the activities of violent groups.
“It is, therefore, inaccurate and misleading to suggest that the Defence Headquarters, at any point, referred to vicious and violent terrorists as criminals,” he stated.
The military explained that its earlier comments on security developments in the South-West were intended to provide intelligence-based clarification and prevent misinformation capable of creating unnecessary fear among residents.
Military authorities reiterated the need for accurate reporting of security issues, stressing that misinformation could undermine public confidence and complicate ongoing security operations.
