The Nigerian Army has refuted reports of a protest allegedly staged in the Ochima community, Igbo-etiti Local Government Area of Enugu State, over the discovery of a live explosive device on a farmland.
In a statement released on Thursday in Enugu by the Acting Deputy Director of Army Public Relations for the 82 Division, Lt.-Col. Jonah Unuakhalu, the Army described the reports as “untrue and falsehood.”
Unuakhalu stated that the attention of the 82 Division Headquarters had been drawn to recent stories circulating across both mainstream and online media platforms, which claimed that there had been a public demonstration in Enugu linked to the alleged explosive.
“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 Igbo-etiti LGA of Enugu State,” he said.
He further noted that the reports lacked verification and credible evidence, calling them misleading and baseless.
“The Nigerian Army remains fully committed to the safety and security of all citizens,” Unuakhalu emphasized.
“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.”
He reassured residents of Enugu and the South East region at large, stating, “Our findings revealed no immediate threat or cause for alarm in relation to the unfounded story.”
Lt.-Col. Unuakhalu urged the general public to avoid spreading misinformation and to remain calm.
He also appealed to journalists and media outlets to adhere to ethical reporting standards by verifying facts with the appropriate authorities before publishing.
“The spread of inaccurate reports not only misinforms the public but also attempts to threaten collective efforts to maintain stability,” he said.
He concluded by affirming the Army’s commitment to regional security, stating, “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.”
