Army denounces fake insurgent propaganda, reports significant gains against terrorists

The Joint Task Force (JTF) Operation HADIN KAI has dismissed online claims that insurgents recently ambushed and killed Nigerian troops, describing the reports as recycled propaganda orchestrated by remnants of Boko Haram and ISWAP.

In a statement released Tuesday and signed by Lieutenant Colonel Sani Uba, Media Information Officer at the task force headquarters, the military explained that investigations uncovered a coordinated disinformation effort involving the reuse of outdated images and reports intended to mislead the public.

“The attention of the Joint Task Force Operation HADIN KAI has been drawn to a renewed propaganda campaign by remnants of Boko Haram and ISWAP, who are circulating old photographs and recycled media reports to create the false impression that they retain the capability to strike troops and civilians,” the statement said.

The task force specifically referenced a resurfaced report dated July 9, 2020, which purportedly showed the aftermath of an ambush on Nigerian soldiers. “Our fact-check mechanism shows that the report was posted over a decade ago and does not reflect current realities on the ground,” the statement added, emphasizing that claims of recent troop casualties were unfounded.

“At no point recently has Operation HADIN KAI lost 20 soldiers,” the military stressed, highlighting the effectiveness of its ongoing operations.

Rather than suffering setbacks, the JTF said its enhanced operational strategy — combining air power with coordinated ground offensives — has significantly weakened insurgent positions across the North-East.

“Within the past one week alone, troops have delivered decisive blows on terrorist enclaves and logistics networks across multiple fronts,” the statement said. In Miyanti, Gajigana, and Gajiram, insurgents attempting to regroup were met with overwhelming force, forcing them to flee and abandon weapons and equipment, including anti-aircraft platforms, rocket bombs, machine guns, and rifles.

The statement also revealed that security forces intercepted a major insurgent funding channel at the Chabbal checkpoint, seizing 37 million naira intended to finance terrorist operations.

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In Komala, Konduga Local Government Area, soldiers engaged insurgents along the Gidan Kaji axis, reportedly neutralizing 16 insurgents and recovering 20 bicycles, weapons, and critical logistics supplies.

The JTF described the online propaganda as part of a psychological warfare campaign, aimed at projecting a false sense of strength following battlefield losses.

“Unable to withstand the operational pressure and battlefield dominance of troops, the terrorists have resorted to recycling outdated images and misleading publications,” the statement explained.

The task force urged the public and media organizations to verify information through official channels before dissemination, warning that unverified content could inadvertently aid terrorist propaganda.

“Citizens are encouraged to remain calm, continue their lawful activities, and support security agencies with timely and actionable information,” the military added.

Reaffirming its mission, the JTF pledged to maintain pressure on insurgent groups until lasting peace is restored in the North-East. “Operation HADIN KAI remains resolute, focused, and committed to the total defeat of terrorism and the restoration of stability in the region,” the statement concluded.