The Nigerian Army has denied the report of over 100 soldiers absconding from Boko Haram attacks in Marte and Dikwa.
A document obtained by People’s Gazette revealed that 101 soldiers absconded and their names, bank details and ranks were obtained by the Nigerian Army.
The document reads, “Theatre Command Headquarters of “Operation Lafiya Dole” in Maiduguri requested that the Army Headquarters freeze the listed accounts and apprehend the alleged deserters if found.
“You are requested to declare the named officers and soldiers deserters WEF 19 Feb 21,” the document said.”
Refuting the claim, the Director Army Public Relations, Mohammed Yerima, in a statement on Thursday stated that the publication was false and was an ‘attempt to malign the image and character of the Nigerian Army.’
The statement reads below;
TROOPS DESERTION STORY NOT TRUE
The attention of the Nigerian Army has been drawn to a publication in a section of the media alleging that over 100 Nigerian troops were reported to have absconded after Boko Haram attacks on Marte and Dikwa. This publication is false, unfounded and an attempt to malign the image and character of the Nigerian Army.
For the records, in the fog of war, it is a routine that headcount is conducted to determine the number of men and equipment holding aftermath of the military offensive. Unfortunately, an internal correspondence that was originated by the formation was not properly done. It was later discovered that a good number of those affected rejoined their respective units and are currently part of the ongoing clearance operations.
Members of the general public are please advised to disregard the story as the subversive intent of the promoters are targeted at dampening the morale and fighting efficiency of our troops. We continually solicit especially the much needed public support in the fight against Boko Haram.
The Nigerian Army wishes to reassure the general public that troops are in high spirit and currently clearing areas infiltrated by Boko Haram terrorists/ISWAP. It is on record that the troops fought to defend the Internally Displaced Persons Camp and United Nations Humanitarian Hub in Dikwa. It is pertinent to also note that normalcy has returned to Dikwa and its environs.
MOHAMMED YERIMA
Brigadier General
Director of Army Public Relations
4 March 2021.
