The 12 Brigade of the Nigerian Army has dismissed reports circulating on social media alleging that photographs released from its recent rescue operation in Kogi State were old images taken months earlier.
In a statement signed on Tuesday by the Acting Assistant Director of Army Public Relations, Lt. Hassan Abdullahi, described the claims as “entirely false and misleading,” insisting that all photographs shared were authentic and captured during the November 2, 2025, operation at Achigili Forest, where troops rescued two kidnapped victims and recovered ransom money.
“For the avoidance of doubt, the attached photographs contain verifiable geolocation data confirming that they were taken at the exact coordinates of the forest area where the operation took place.
“This serves as clear evidence that the images are genuine, current, and directly linked to the incident as reported,” the statement read.
Abdullahi reaffirmed the Army’s commitment to professionalism, integrity, and accountability in its media and operational activities, noting that all images and footage undergo a rigorous verification process before being released to the public.
He warned that the false social media reports were the handiwork of “mischief makers” seeking to discredit the military’s successes and erode public confidence in its counter-crime operations across Kogi State.
READ ALSO: We’ll Crush Lakurawa Terrorists Without Mercy, Says Army Chief Shaibu
“The false narrative being circulated is a deliberate attempt to undermine the credible efforts of our gallant troops.
“Such misinformation only serves to embolden criminal elements and should be disregarded,” the statement added.
The Brigade also urged members of the public to ignore the misleading claims and continue to support the Nigerian Army and other security agencies with credible information to aid the ongoing fight against criminality in the region.