The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has dismissed what it described as mischievous and misleading reports alleging that it downplayed the activities of terrorists and criminal elements operating in the South West.

In a statement issued on Thursday, the DHQ clarified that at no time did it undermine the authority of any democratically elected leader or diminish the severity of crimes committed against innocent citizens by terrorist groups.

The military high command stated that the Armed Forces of Nigeria remains committed to supporting constitutional governance, protecting democratic institutions and collaborating with all levels of government to ensure national security.

According to the statement, the clarification earlier issued by the Defence Headquarters was intended to provide intelligence-based context regarding the security situation in the South West and prevent misinformation capable of causing unnecessary panic among residents.

The DHQ explained that the recent kidnapping incident in Oyo State was carried out by terrorists linked to the Jama’atu Ahlis Sunna Lidda’awati wal-Jihad (JAS) group, who were displaced from other parts of the country following intensified military operations.

“It is inaccurate and misleading to suggest that the Defence Headquarters at any point referred to violent terrorists as mere criminals,” the statement noted.

The military added that troops remain actively deployed across affected areas in collaboration with other security agencies and local stakeholders to track and neutralise fleeing terrorist elements.

The Defence Headquarters reaffirmed the commitment of the Armed Forces to dismantling criminal and terrorist networks threatening the peace, stability and unity of the country.

The statement was signed by the Director, Defence Media Operations, Major General Michael Onoja.