DHQ dismisses claims of terrorist base in South-West
Defence Headquarters Denies Reports of Terrorist Stronghold in South-West Nigeria
ABUJA — The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has dismissed claims regarding a terrorist stronghold in the South-West region, emphasizing that current security operations are aimed at rescuing abducted victims and combating criminal activity linked to recent attacks.
The statement, released on Tuesday by Maj. Gen. Michael Onoja, Director of Defence Media Operations, addressed the public’s concerns following a series of abductions in Oyo State.
Onoja conveyed the Chief of Defence Staff Gen. Olufemi Oluyede’s condolences to the government and residents of Oyo State, particularly the families affected by the abduction of students and teachers in Oriire Local Government Area. He condemned the incident, labeling it as “unacceptable and criminal.”
“The full weight of the Armed Forces is being brought to bear to ensure the safe return of all abducted victims,” Onoja said. He urged Nigerians to remain calm and to assist security agencies by providing credible intelligence.
In previous operations, the military neutralized criminal elements within the Old Oyo National Park, he noted. Onoja reaffirmed that intelligence does not support assertions of an organized terrorist presence in the South-West.
“The incident in Oyo State remains an isolated criminal act and does not indicate the presence of an entrenched insurgent structure in the region,” he stated. He cautioned against narratives that could incite panic or empower criminal groups.
Onoja further indicated that military personnel had established contact with the abductors and were conducting sustained pursuit operations through forest routes in an effort to secure the victims’ release. Collaborations with other security agencies and local vigilante groups are in progress to eliminate criminal elements and restore stability to the affected areas.
He underscored the importance of community cooperation in these operations, highlighting that timely human intelligence could significantly aid rescue efforts.
“The Armed Forces will not relent until all abducted victims are rescued and those responsible are brought to justice,” Onoja reiterated.
