The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has dismissed reports suggesting the existence of a terrorist base in Nigeria’s South-West region, stating that ongoing military operations are targeted at rescuing kidnapped victims and tackling criminal groups responsible for recent attacks.
Speaking in Abuja on Tuesday, the Director of Defence Media Operations, Maj.-Gen. Michael Onoja, said the Chief of Defence Staff, Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, sympathised with the Oyo State Government and families affected by the recent abduction of pupils and teachers in Oriire Local Government Area.
Onoja condemned the attack, describing the kidnapping of innocent schoolchildren and staff as a criminal act that would not be tolerated.
According to him, the Armed Forces have mobilised personnel and resources to ensure the victims are rescued safely and without conditions.
He assured Nigerians that the military remains fully committed to securing the release of those abducted and bringing those behind the incident to justice.
The defence spokesman also urged citizens to remain calm and continue supporting security agencies with credible information that could aid ongoing operations.
Onoja revealed that security operatives had earlier conducted clearance operations in the Old Oyo National Park, where several criminal elements operating in the area were neutralised.
He stressed that available intelligence does not support claims that an organised terrorist network currently exists in the South-West.
According to him, the recent incident in Oyo State should be viewed as an isolated criminal operation rather than evidence of a fully established insurgent structure within the region.
He warned against spreading narratives capable of creating panic among residents or encouraging criminal groups.
The DHQ further disclosed that troops have established contact with the kidnappers and are intensifying pursuit efforts through forest areas to secure the victims’ release.
Ongoing joint operations involving security agencies and local vigilante groups are also being carried out to restore peace and flush out criminal elements from affected communities.
Onoja added that cooperation from residents remains crucial, noting that timely intelligence from locals would greatly support rescue efforts and security operations.
