Nigerian Army Labels Bandit Attack Report in Kwara as Fabrication

…As Troops of 148 Battalion neutralized armed bandits and recovered weapons along Kwara–Ekiti border

…As Citizens urged to provide credible intelligence to support ongoing clearance efforts

The Nigerian Army has dismissed a recent online report claiming that bandits overran military positions and stole weapons in Obanla, Kwara State, describing the story as false, misleading, and an attempt to demoralize troops.

The report alleged that six General Purpose Machine Guns (GPMGs) and over 30,000 rounds of ammunition were carted away by criminal elements during the supposed attack. However, the Army has firmly debunked these claims.

According to a statement released and signed by Lieutenant Colonel Polycarp Okoye, Deputy Director of Army Public Relations, 2 Division Nigerian Army, the alleged incident did not occur and no Army formation was overrun or weapons lost.

Instead, troops of 148 Battalion (Rear), currently engaged in clearance operations across parts of Kogi and Kwara States, have been achieving notable successes.

“In a recent operation, our troops mounted a blocking position along the Kwara–Ekiti border, successfully engaging and neutralizing two armed bandits,” the statement said. “Two brand new AK-47 rifles were recovered during the encounter.”

The Army described the report as a “fabrication” intended to mislead the public and undermine ongoing efforts to combat insecurity in the region.

Reaffirming its commitment to restoring peace and stability, the Army called on citizens to disregard the false report and continue supporting military operations by providing credible information.

“We remain resolute in dismantling criminal networks across Kogi, Kwara, and adjoining states,” the statement read