The Nigerian Army has dismissed reports circulating on social media alleging that photographs released from its recent rescue operation in Kogi State were old images taken months ago.
In a statement signed by Lieutenant Hassan Abdullahi, Acting Assistant Director, Army Public Relations, 12 Brigade Nigerian Army, the military described the claims as “false and misleading.”
According to the statement, the photos in question were captured during a legitimate rescue operation carried out on November 2, 2025, by troops from the Forward Operating Base (FOB) Oguma. The operation led to the rescue of two kidnapped victims and the recovery of ransom money from Achigili Forest in Kogi State.
“For the avoidance of doubt, the attached photographs contain verifiable geolocation data confirming that they were taken at the precise coordinates of the forest area where the operation took place,” the Army said, emphasizing that the images were genuine and current.
The Brigade reiterated that all images and videos released by the Nigerian Army undergo strict verification and approval through its operational public relations channels before being made public.
It described the viral social media post as the handiwork of “mischief makers bent on discrediting the credible efforts and successes of our gallant troops in maintaining peace and security across Kogi State.”
Lieutenant Abdullahi urged Nigerians to disregard the false reports and continue to support the Army and other security agencies with credible information to aid the fight against criminal activities in the region.
“Such misinformation only seeks to embolden criminal elements and undermine public trust,” the statement added.
