Hussaini Kafi in Kano
The Nigerian Army has dismissed as false and malicious an audio circulating on social media alleging a violent clash between its troops under Operation Whirl Stroke (OPWS) and the Operation Zenda Joint Task Force (JTF) in Makurdi, Benue State.
The viral recording also falsely claimed that military personnel had released a supposed Fulani terrorist kingpin following the alleged killing of 23 civilians and a Mobile Police officer in Tulan, Kwande LGA.
However, a fact-finding mission by OPWS, in collaboration with police authorities, revealed that no such killings occurred on May 11, 2025, as alleged.
The Benue State Police Command also confirmed that no such incident was recorded. Additionally, the Commander of the Zenda base denied any confrontation or raid involving the Army.
The Army clarified that troops had only intervened in a separate incident in Udei, where a Fulani man was rescued from mob lynching and handed over to police. Two individuals mentioned in the audio remain in lawful custody.
Describing the audio as the handiwork of ethnic agitators and mischief makers, the Army warned against misinformation, pledging to identify and prosecute the perpetrators. It reiterated its commitment to professionalism, unity, and rule of law.
