By Our Correspondent
Dr. Mahdi Shehu, a prominent critic of the federal government, has claimed that official denials have become a standard way for government officials to confirm sensitive issues. He cited the Nigerian Army’s recent statement denying the existence of a French military base in Maiduguri as an example.
Reacting to the statement, Dr. Shehu took to his X handle to comment on the denial, referencing the Army’s clarification that countered rumors about the presence of a French military base in the North East.
Army’s Denial
The Headquarters Theatre Command, Joint Task Force North East Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK), released an official statement categorically denying the allegations. Capt. Reuben Kovangiya, Acting Deputy Director of Army Public Relations at OPHK, issued the statement, emphasizing that no French military base exists in Maiduguri, nor are there plans to establish one in the region.
Background to the Claims
The controversy arose after Mahdi Shehu posted a video clip on his social media platform, alleging the establishment of a French military base in Maiduguri. The video featured the Acting General Officer Commanding (GOC) 7 Division of the Nigerian Army, Brigadier General Abubakar Haruna, alongside a foreign military officer, whom Dr. Shehu identified as a French soldier.
In response, the Army clarified that the video depicted a press briefing on October 25, 2024, at Maimalari Cantonment, Maiduguri. During the event, Brigadier General Haruna addressed the media alongside a member of the British Military Advisory Training Team (BMATT). The occasion marked the handover of equipment donated to Operation HADIN KAI by BMATT, which was received by the Theatre Commander, Major General Waidi Shaibu.
Army’s Rebuttal
The Army further highlighted the longstanding partnership between the Nigerian Defence Headquarters and BMATT, which has provided significant support in training and equipment for countering improvised explosive devices (C-IEDs).
“The claims are baseless, deceptive, and a deliberate attempt to spread misinformation. Such actions, driven by malicious intent, aim to mislead the public and incite unwarranted sentiments,” the statement read. The Army urged the public to disregard the rumors and rely on verified information from credible sources.
Dr. Mahdi Shehu’s Position
Dr. Shehu, however, insists that government denials often serve as indirect confirmations of the facts they seek to refute. His comments have reignited discussions about transparency and communication within government institutions, particularly concerning security operations in sensitive regions.
