The 1st Division of the Nigerian Army has strongly refuted claims of extrajudicial executions, home invasions, and theft by residents in response to tales that have been making the rounds. The Division provided clarification on its recent activities in the Kaduna Forest and reiterated its dedication to upholding the law and respecting human rights.
Denunciation of Allegations:
1 Division vehemently refuted the accusations put forth by Daily Trust Newspaper, and maintained that the Nigerian Army is a professional army that does not partake in extrajudicial executions or pilfer the assets of its residents. The Division highlighted how committed it is to protecting the law and guaranteeing each and every citizen’s fundamental human rights.
To shed light on the kidnapping event:
The Division said troops were called to the Crossing general area of Kachia Local Government on December 21, 2023, where a young man was kidnapped and his motorbike and N15,000 were in the process. Consequently, three of the kidnappers were neutralised during the operation, and one managed to flee with a gunshot wound before being captured by the military.
Village Raid and Insurgent Activity:
According to the division, on December 30, 2023, military forces carried out an operation in Tilden Fulani. Mr. Ibrahim Abubakar was taken into custody due to possible links to insurgent activity. Abubakar divulged information regarding his rebel actions, including highway raids and kidnaps, during the investigation. This prompted another raid into the settlement, during which it was found that five of the suspects had escaped. After searching their homes, the troops turned up nothing of interest.
Denial of Involvement in Alleged Area:
1 Division disputes reports that troops were present in the allegedly corpse-filled area, stressing that they had not been to that particular location.
The Division said it is pleading with the public to ignore the accusations, stressing that they are part of a smear campaign aimed at undermining its efforts to rid communities of terrorism and insurgency. To eradicate terrorism and criminal activity from the area, the public is urged to collaborate with the Division and other security organisations, the army statement added.
Assuring and Appreciating:
Lieutenant Colonel Musa Yahaya, Acting Deputy Director of Army Public Relations for 1 Division, who issued the statement, on behalf of the 1 Division, thanked the people of Kaduna State for their unwavering support and understanding. As the Division continues to be dedicated to maintaining security in the area, he advised the public to go about their legal and legitimate business.
