The Army yesterday debunked news that some soldiers were missing after Boko Haram insurgents ambushed their convoy at Boboshe, Bama Local Government Area of Borno State.
It said on the contrary, troops killed 22 insurgents.
A statement by the Army spokesman, Brig.-Gen Texas Chukwu, urged the public to disregard the report. He maintained that only an officer and a soldier were injured in the encounter.
The statement reads: “The attention of the Army has been drawn to news alleging an attack on soldiers and capturing of military vehicles by Boko Haram insurgents in Bama Local Government Area of Borno State.
“The Army wishes to state that the report is not untrue and misleading as it is blown out of proportion. Contrary to the report, the Army wishes to put the record straight and assure the public, particularly residents of the Northeast, to disregard the report as their safety is guaranteed.
“There was an attempted attack on troops at Kwakwa and Chingori communities in Bama council and because of the difficult terrain our vehicles bugged down.
“The terrorists also attempted to cart away our operational vehicles but they were successfully repelled by our gallant troops with the support of the Air Force.
“About 22 terrorists were neutralised while several escaped with gunshot wounds. Efforts are being intensified by the troops to get the fleeing terrorists. Unfortunately, one officer and a soldier were injured and are currently receiving treatment at the military medical facility.
“While the Army would not join issues with the media, certain facts must be reported with caution, particularly now that troops have recorded success against insurgency.
“The public are also advised to disregard the report and go about their legitimate businesses as the Army is on top of the situation. It is my opinion that in future, media practitioners should endeavour to verify facts from appropriate military authority before publishing.”