The Nigerian Army has refuted claims that its personnel invaded churches and dispersed worshippers in Umunze, Orumba North Local Government Area of Anambra State. The reports, which surfaced in some media outlets, alleged that the Army’s actions caused panic among the local population, particularly in Catholic Churches.
Responding to an inquiry from the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Thursday, the Director of Army Public Relations, Maj.-Gen. Onyema Nwachukwu, clarified that the operation in question was a cordon and search mission, not an invasion of churches as reported. According to Maj.-Gen. Nwachukwu, the operation was carried out by troops of the 82 Division Nigerian Army following intelligence that assailants who had attacked and killed soldiers were receiving medical treatment in a house near a church.
He explained that the troops evacuated vulnerable individuals from the area to prevent collateral damage in case of a shootout. The search was aimed at arresting accomplices who had escaped with gunshot wounds after the attack that resulted in the death of two soldiers. Unfortunately, the suspects had already fled the building by the time the troops arrived.
Maj.-Gen. Nwachukwu emphasized that the timing of the operation, which occurred on a Sunday, was unfortunate but necessary. He also noted that the troop deployment in Umunze was essential due to the increasing cases of kidnapping and ransom collection by criminals in the area. He assured that the presence of the troops has significantly reduced these crimes and that the Army will continue to ensure the safety of all citizens.