The Nigerian Army has debunked false claims linking its personnel to unprofessional conduct of burning of homes, looting property and harassing civilians in Umualumaku, Ehime-Mbano Local Government Area of Imo State.

This is contained in a statement issued on Thursday in Enugu by Lt.-Col. Olabisi Ayeni, acting Deputy Director, Army Public Relations 82 Division of Nigerian Army.

Ayeni said that the alleged claims were not only false but also a calculated attempt to sabotage the Division’s efforts.

According to him, the populace is kindly advised to note that no soldier under the Command was involved in such misconduct.

“Our troops operate under strict adherence to the code of conduct in military operations as well as the rules of engagement; thereby, ensuring best practices. The allegation appears to be the handiwork of criminal actors who, in their usual style, orchestrate such malicious reports to smear the image of the Division.

“The allegation is meant to undermine its efforts to ensure a safe and secure environment within the area of operation. Their objective is to sow seeds of discord in order to erode the public trust that the Division has diligently built,” he said.

The Army spokesman said that the Nigerian Army is a professional and disciplined force, committed to upholding the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and safeguarding law-abiding citizens.

“It is important to add that the Division will continue to collaborate with other security agencies, community leaders and civil society organisations to identify, apprehend and prosecute those truly responsible for such violence and uncivilised acts.

“Meanwhile, the media is urged to rely only on verified information, as misinformation and disinformation are tools commonly deployed by criminal elements to undermine peace-building efforts,” he added.