Military Denies Boko Haram, ISWAP Presence in Abuja, Probes NYSC Member’s Death

Military Shuts Down Abuja Terror Rumours

The Nigerian military has come out firmly against viral reports claiming Boko Haram and ISWAP elements have made their way into the Federal Capital Territory. At a press conference in Abuja on Thursday, the Defence Headquarters dismissed the claims as false and said there is no credible evidence to back them.

Director of Defence Media Operations, Major General Michael Onoja, addressed journalists directly: “There is no verifiable report confirming the presence of terrorists in any part of the FCT. The allegation of presence of terrorists in Jukwoyi is not true. I can state categorically that it is not true.”

Criminal Elements — A Different Story

Onoja didn’t dismiss all security concerns outright. He drew a clear line: terrorists — no. Criminal elements — possibly. It’s a distinction the military is carefully maintaining as public anxiety continues to build online.

Troops from the 7 Division and the Theatre Command are deployed and operational. Abuja, the DHQ said, is secure.

NYSC Death Under Investigation

Separately, the military confirmed it is investigating the death of a National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) member in Abuja. Two conflicting accounts have emerged. The military unit involved says its personnel were pursuing armed robbers and that the corps member was caught in crossfire. The family has flatly rejected that version.

Onoja said both accounts are under review. “I have reviewed both the military’s report and the family’s counter-narrative. It is evident that there are gaps in both accounts. While the soldiers maintain that they were pursuing an armed robber and that there was a crossfire, the family insists that this account is inaccurate, and we are currently engaging with them,” he said.

He added that internal verification is ongoing: “Anyone found culpable or who acted beyond their mandate will be held accountable.”

Sources: ThisDay Live, Blueprint Newspapers, New Telegraph, Arise TV