Re: Bodies of 11 Fulani Arrested by Soldiers Found in Kaduna Forest
The Nigerian Army Headquarters, Division 1 has refuted claims by the Daily Trust Newspaper regarding alleged actions by troops of 1 Division Nigerian Army.
The Division vehemently denies the allegations, asserting the commitment of the Nigerian Army to the rule of law and the utmost respect for the fundamental human rights of all citizens.
The Division emphasises that it cannot be involved in extrajudicial killings or theft of citizens’ valuables, as suggested by the circulated report.
The Nigerian Army, being representative of the Nigerian people, rejects any insinuation that it would be employed to pursue any untoward agenda.
To provide clarity, on December 21, 2023, troops of the Division responded to a kidnapping incident in the Crossing general area of Kachia Local Government. The kidnappers had stabbed a young man, robbed him of his motorcycle, and took Fifteen Thousand Naira (N15,000) from him. The troops engaged the kidnappers, neutralising three, while one, who escaped with a gunshot wound, was later apprehended en-route to the hospital.
The release further explained that, “on December 30, 2023, troops conducted their first military operation in Tilden Fulani, leading to the arrest of Mr. Ibrahim Abubakar on suspicion of involvement in insurgent activities. During the investigation, Mr. Ibrahim Abubakar provided details of his participation in insurgent activities, including involvement in kidnappings and highway raids. He also disclosed names of five individuals in the community possessing automatic weapons. Subsequently, another raid was conducted in the village, but the suspects had fled with their families. Despite a thorough search, no incriminating evidence was found, and nothing was taken by the troops.
Intelligence indicated the village’s complicity in terrorist activities, prompting the residents’ departure to avoid retaliation from the militia group in the area.”
The Division categorically denies any instance of troops killing or executing Fulani herders or innocent citizens, confiscating their money, motorcycles, or ginger. The Division asserts that the allegations constitute a smear campaign aimed at undermining its efforts to eradicate insurgency and terrorism in its Area of Responsibility (AOR).
The claimed location of the alleged corpses has never been visited by the troops of the Division.
The Nigerian Army thereby urge the general public to dismiss these malicious allegations and continue to collaborate with the Division and other security agencies in the collective effort to eliminate terrorism, insurgency, and criminal activities from the region. The Division expresses gratitude for the continued support and understanding of the people of Kaduna State, encouraging them to carry on with their lawful and legitimate activities.
Re: Bodies of 11 Fulani Arrested by Soldiers Found in Kaduna Forest