By Danmaryam Zayamu
The authorities of the Nigeria Army have refuted the report making the rounds in a section of the media alleging that Boko Haram terrorist group made frantic attempts to seize Madagali town in Adamawa State.
In a statement to clarify the situation, the Nigerian Army Operations Media Coordinator, Colonel Aminu Iliyasu, called on Nigerians to disregard the rumours as it is unfounded mischievous, hence, has no iota of truth.
Col Iliyasu noted that: “The Nigerian Army views this malicious report as a deliberate attempt to instill fear and cause disaffection among the residents of Madagali, Adamawa State and the nation at large and therefore wish to categorically state that no such encounter ever happened as reported by a section of the media.”
The statement further explained that: “It is however pertinent to note that the Theatre Command Operation LAFIYA DOLE is currently in a relentless pursuit of the remnants of criminal Boko Haram and Islamic State’s West Africa Province insurgents, routing them from their hideouts in the North East under the newly launched special operation nicknamed ‘Operation RUFE KOFA’.
“The Nigerian Army equally reported via a press statement issued on 26 December 2019, that her troops conducted a robust clearance operation on 24 December 2019, from Madagali through Waga Lawan, Jaje to Fadama in Madagali LGA of Adamawa State where the gallant troops dealt a decisive blow on some marauding Boko Haram criminals hibernating along the axis.
“To this end, the general public is hereby requested to disregard the mischievous publications as there has indeed been no encounter between Boko Haram criminals and troops of Operation LAFIYA DOLE as stated.
“The Nigerian Army views the media as reliable partners in the successful conduct of all her operations and as such remain always receptive to all media professionals that wish to inquire or verify any report that would assist the ongoing efforts at ensuring the defence of the territorial integrity of our dear nation.”