Nigerian Military Addresses Terrorism Concerns in the Southwest
The Nigerian military has firmly rejected claims suggesting the existence of permanent terrorist bases in the southwest region, emphasizing that no established terrorist organizations currently operate there. This assertion comes in light of rising concerns following recent attacks in Oyo State.
Following the alarming incidents, the Nigerian Army sought to clarify that these events do not signal the emergence of a formal insurgency network in the area. The military categorized the series of kidnappings in Oriyele Local Government Area as isolated criminal acts rather than indicative of a sustained terror presence. They pointed out that extensive operations conducted in the Old Oyo National Park (OONP) have significantly curtailed the activities of criminal elements in the region.
In a statement released by Maj. Gen. Michael Onoja, the Director of Defense Media Operations, the military reinforced that current intelligence evaluations do not corroborate claims of a structured terrorist base in the forests and hinterlands of southwest Nigeria. This assessment aims to alleviate public fears amidst speculation regarding security threats in the region.
General Olufemi Oluyede, the Chief of Defense Staff, extended heartfelt condolences to the families affected by the attacks on several local schools in the Oriyele area. He condemned the abduction of innocent children and staff, labeling the assaults on institutions such as the Baptist Nursery and Primary School and Community Grammar School as heinous acts that resonate deeply with all Nigerians.
In his remarks, General Oluyede reassured affected families that the full might of the armed forces would be mobilized to guarantee the safe return of all abductees. He urged citizens to remain calm and to support ongoing security efforts in the wake of these attacks. The military emphasized that despite the audacity of their recent activities, criminal factions do not represent a stable insurgent presence.
He further urged against narratives that could incite public panic or exaggerate the adversaries’ capabilities. The Defense Headquarters reaffirmed its commitment to the safety of all Nigerians, especially those residing in the southwest, assuring that armed forces are actively engaged in operations to track down perpetrators and locate those who have been abducted.
General Onoja highlighted that military forces had made contact with criminal elements two days prior, and operations were underway to intensify the search and rescue efforts. Collaboration with relevant security agencies and local communities is a vital part of these intensified operations, as both human intelligence and community support play crucial roles in restoring stability in the area.
The military aims to work collaboratively with local vigilante groups to eradicate criminal activities from the forests and ensure lasting peace in the southwest and throughout Nigeria. The Nigerian Armed Forces remain steadfast in their mission to uncover the networks behind these crimes and to reinstate normalcy in the region permanently.
