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The Nigerian Army has debunked an alleged protest in Ochima community in Udi Local Government Area (LGA) of Enugu State over discovery of live explosive on a farmland as untrue and falsehood.
This is contained in a statement issued by the Acting Deputy Director 82 Division Army Public Relations, Lt.-Col. Jonah Unuakhalu, on Thursday in Enugu.
Unuakhalu said that the attention of Headquarters 82 Division, Nigerian Army, had been drawn to recent reports in certain mainstream and online media platforms alleging a protest in Enugu following discovery of a live explosive device on a farmland.
According to him, it is pertinent to state that the reports are unsubstantiated, misleading and lack any credible verification.
“Preliminary findings indicate that no such protest occurred, and the narrative appears to be designed to incite unwarranted fear and tension within Ochima and adjoining communities in Udi LGA of Enugu State.
“The Nigerian Army remains fully committed to the safety and security of all citizens.
“We have standard operating procedures in place for the employment, handling, and disposal of explosive ordnance whenever necessary, which entails checks and safety measures in collaboration with relevant security agencies.
“We, therefore, assure the good people of Enugu State and, indeed, the South Easterners, that our findings revealed no immediate threat or cause for alarm in relation to the unfounded story,” he said.
The army spokesman urged members of the public to remain calm and refrain from disseminating false or unverified information.
Unuakhalu also called on media practitioners to uphold the highest standards of responsible journalism by verifying information with relevant authorities prior to publication.
He said, “The spread of inaccurate reports not only misinforms the public but also attempts to threaten collective efforts to maintain stability.
“The 82 Division continues to work in close collaboration with civil authorities to ensure peace and security across Enugu State and the entire South East.”
