Nigerian army denies gunning down traders in Aba

A report making the rounds that men of the 144 Battalion on routine patrol shot at traders and unfortunately killed one in a market in Aba, Abia State, has been denied by the Nigerian Army.

There had been reports that soldiers molested Igbo youths especially in Aba, Abia State following orders by the Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Tukur Buratai to deal ruthlessly with any group that could pose threats to the conduct of the forthcoming elections, with particular reference to members of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB).

However, the claims were denied by Nigerian Army in a statement signed by Col. Sagir Musa, the Deputy Director, Public Relations, 82 Division, Col. Sagir Musa, who noted that the report was not true and intended to portray Nigerian soldiers in bad light.

Read also: IDP camp in Maiduguri boils over lack of food

The Deputy Director, Public Relations, although revealed that there was an incident involving 144 Battalion patrol team and some traders at Asa – Nnentu spare parts market in Ugwunagbo Local Government Area of Abia State but said no one was shot dead or wounded.

He said no less than six members of the proscribed IPOB were arrested and handed over to the Nigeria Police, Abia State Command for prosecution after they were rounded up for disturbing public peace.

Join the conversation

Opinions

Support Ripples Nigeria, hold up solutions journalism

Balanced, fearless journalism driven by data comes at huge financial costs.

As a media platform, we hold leadership accountable and will not trade the right to press freedom and free speech for a piece of cake.

If you like what we do, and are ready to uphold solutions journalism, kindly donate to the Ripples Nigeria cause.

Your support would help to ensure that citizens and institutions continue to have free access to credible and reliable information for societal development.

Donate Now