The Nigerian military has refuted claims by a non-state actor, Chief Sunday Adeyemo more known as Sunday Igboho that he had captured some soldiers sent to spy on him, Njenje Media News reports.
In a statement issued by the Acting Director, Defence Media Operations, Brigadier-General B.E Onyeuko as a reaction to the viral video insinuating some spies sent by the military were captured by Sunday Ighoho’s men, the Defence headquarters denied any link with those allegedly apprehended.
The statement also added that though the Armed Forces of Nigeria has a constitutional responsibility to protect the territorial integrity of the nation, it won’t abandon its responsibilities to start spying on a single person.
The statement noted that the Defence Headquarters has no interest in dragging or joining issues with Sunday Adeyemo or his associates, it is pertinent to clear the air and address these allegations squarely.
“For the records, it should be noted that the Armed Forces of Nigeria, are highly professional in the discharge of their duties, with well-defined roles, responsibilities and duties in its mandate of securing the territorial integrity of the Nigerian Nation. As such, the Military cannot stoop so low to such extent to “spy” on one individual, as wildly and loosely alleged.”
“Secondly, the Armed Forces of Nigeria is a highly disciplined and professional organization with extant laws and regulations which guide the actions of its personnel in the conduct of their duties. As such, it is practically impossible for military personnel on official duty to conduct themselves in such manner as alleged by Adeyemo and his cohorts.”
“For the avoidance of doubt, a preliminary investigation has so far revealed that one of the alleged “soldiers” is a serial impersonator. Meanwhile, credible eyewitnesses and sources have also revealed that some associates of Igboho went in pursuit of some individuals when the motorbike conveying the impersonator and one Nigerian Air Force personnel ran into them. The duo was immediately apprehended and taken to the said “IGBOHO House” at Soka before Ibadan toll gate where they were branded as spies. Furthermore, investigations are currently underway by Nigerian Airforce and the Nigerian Army to unravel the actual circumstances which played out on the day.”
“The Defence Headquarters hereby warns individuals and groups to desist from disparaging the enviable reputation of the Nigerian Military by dragging it into its petty issues to gain political mileage. Such actions will not be condoned in the future.
