By Victor Akaa, Abuja
The Nigerian Army has in clear terms debunked a publication trending on some section of social media as well as other national dailies alleging the absconding of over 100 Nigerian Army troops after Boko Haram attacks on Marte and Dikwa Local Government Areas in Borno State.
Recalled that the news of about 101 NA soldiers had deserted after attacks by Boko Haram terrorists went viral in the public space.
In the said report, the names of the supposedly deserted soldiers were listed ,and it was also alleged that the army had declared them wanted and frozen their accounts.
But reacting to the report, the NA through its Directorate of Army Public Relations described the publication as ‘false, unfounded and an attempt to malign the image and character’ of the revered institution.
Director Army Public Relations, Brig Gen Mohammed Yerima in a statement relayed to Enugu Reporters noted that the alleged report did not officially emanate from the Army hence should be disregarded as it was a deliberate ploy targeted at dampening the morale and the fighting spirits of the troops.
The statement admitted that the error came from a routine count that is normally done after any offensive .
According to him, it was a normal procedural routine in the military that after the fog of war or attack, exploitations are being conducted after the offensive to ascertain the number of casualties and level of damage caused,among others.
Consequently, after the exploitations, all the soldiers were later found in their various respective units.
“For the records, in the fog of war, it is a routine that head count is conducted to determine the number of men and equipment holding aftermath of military offensive.
“Unfortunately, an internal correspondence that was originated by the formation was not properly done.
It was later discovered that a good number of those affected rejoined their respective units and are currently part of the ongoing clearance operations.
“Members of the general public are please advised to disregard the story as the subversive intent of the promoters are targeted at dampening the morale and fighting efficiency of our troops. We continually solicit especially the much needed public support in the fight against Boko Haram.
“The Nigerian Army wishes to reassure the general public that troops are in high spirit and currently clearing areas infiltrated by Boko Haram terrorists/ISWAP.
“It is on record that the troops fought to defend the Internally Displaced Persons Camp and United Nations Humanitarian Hub in Dikwa. It is pertinent to also note that normalcy has returned to Dikwa and its environs.” he added.
