The Nigerian Military has refuted claims by popular Yoruba activist, Sunday Adeyemo, that he is been spied on by federal authorities.
Mr Adeyemo popularly known as Sunday Igboho in a recent social media video clip alleged that his activities was been monitored following his pronouncement of secession. He made the allegation after apprehending four men including two on military uniforms beside his Ibadan residence.
But a Saturday statement from Brig.-Gen. Benard Onyeuko, acting director of Defence Media Operation, described the allegation as wild.
Mr Onyeuko said the military will not stoop so low to spy on an individual.
“While the Defence Headquarters has no interest dragging or joining issues with Sunday Adeyemo or his associates, it is pertinent to clear the air and address these allegations squarely,” he said. “For the records, it should be noted that the Armed Forces of Nigeria, are highly professional in the discharge of their duties, with well-defined roles, responsibilities and duties in its mandate of securing the territorial integrity of the Nigerian Nation.
“As such, the Military cannot stoop so low to such extent to “spy” on one individual, as wildly and loosely alleged. “Secondly, the Armed Forces of Nigeria is a highly disciplined and professional organisation with extant laws and regulations which guide the actions of its personnel in the conduct of their duties.
“As such, it is practically impossible for military personnel on official duty to conduct themselves in such manner as alleged by Adeyemo and his cohorts,” he said.
The military spokesman, citing preliminary investigation, also claimed one of the men on military uniforms was impersonating the Nigerian Army while the other is a personnel of the Air force.
“Credible eye witnesses and sources had also revealed that some associates of Igboho went in pursuit of some individuals when the motorbike conveying the impersonator and one Nigerian Air Force personnel ran into them.
“Furthermore, investigations are currently underway by Nigerian Air Force and the Nigerian Army to unravel the actual circumstances which played out on the day.
“The Defence Headquarters hereby warns individuals and groups to desist from disparaging the enviable reputation of the Nigerian Military by dragging it into its petty issues to gain political mileage. “Such actions will not be condoned in the future,” he added.
