The Defence Headquarters have released a statement denying widespread media reports that the Nigerian Army recently invaded a United Nations House in Maiduguri in search of weapons and Boko Haram Commanders. The statement which described the report as false added that the referenced security operation was merely a routine cordon and search operation conducted in the general area in line with the Military's counter insurgency strategy.
The statement lamented that the House referred to as United Nations building was an unmarked accommodation without any sign that it was occupied by the UN. It assured that the Military in the conduct of its operation would continue to be professional, playing by the rule of the game.
The statement read in full;
"The Defence Headquarters wishes to clarify the news through some media outlets that troops of Operation LAFIA DOLE invaded United Nations house in Maiduguri, which is not true. It was a cordon and search operation conducted in that general area in line with the re-invigorated effort of the Military on Counter Terrorism operations in the North East as a whole.
It is noteworthy that, the house being referred to as United Nations building, is an unmarked accommodation without any sign that it was occupied by United Nations. Notwithstanding, the search operation was conducted peacefully at the premises, when the troops were allowed into it, just like other buildings.
Furthermore, the relationship between the Nigerian Military and United Nations has been cordial, aimed at working towards a more secured world in general and Nigeria in particular, which will be sustained. Thus, everything will be done by the Nigerian Military to ensure that United Nations activities and interests are given adequate protection and encouragement.
Therefore, the general public is hereby requested to disregard the information that “United Nations building in Maiduguri was raided by troops of Operation LAFIYA DOLE”.
Meanwhile, the UN said it has resumed humanitarian services in the area. The exercise was earlier suspended following the reported raid in the area.
