No weapons lost to bandits in Kwara, army dismisses viral report
The Nigerian Army has debunked a viral online report claiming that bandits overran its troops and carted away heavy weapons, including six General Purpose Machine Guns (GPMGs) and over 30,000 rounds of ammunition, in Obanla, Kwara State.
In a statement issued on Sunday, October 5, 2025, by Lieutenant Colonel Polycarp Okoye, Deputy Director, Army Public Relations, 2 Division, the Army described the publication as “false, misleading, and mischievous,” aimed at creating panic and undermining public confidence in the military.
According to the statement, troops of 148 Battalion (Rear), who are currently engaged in clearance operations across parts of Kogi and Kwara States, have continued to record “significant operational successes” against criminal elements in the region.
“In a recent engagement, troops mounted a strong blocking position along the Kwara–Ekiti border axis, where they neutralized two armed bandits and recovered two brand new AK-47 rifles,” the statement read.
The Army emphasized that at no point were its positions overrun, nor was any cache of weapons or ammunition lost to bandits, as alleged in the online report.
“The publication is a fabrication designed to mislead the public and undermine the morale of our gallant troops who are diligently working to restore peace and stability in the region,” Lt. Col. Okoye added.
The military urged the public to disregard the falsehood and continue supporting ongoing security operations with credible intelligence that could aid efforts to combat insecurity.
Reaffirming its commitment to the safety of lives and property, the Army reiterated its readiness to sustain and intensify operations until all criminal networks operating in Kwara, Kogi, and neighbouring states are dismantled.
