Enugu residents were thrown into panic since the weekend following reports that NAF helicopters, which had hovered around the city for some time, were sighted dropping weapons at a Fulani settlement in Akwukwe. Originators of the reports were circulating pictures of the helicopters flying at low levels in the forest area and asked residents to be cautious. But Aigbeoghain, who refuted the reports, said the story was deliberately concocted to cause disaffection and panic among in Enugu and the entire region.The statement urged the people of Enugu State to disregard the claims, remain calm and go about their normal businesses without fear of molestation from any individuals or groups. Besides, the Ohanaeze Ndigbo Youth Council Worldwide (OYC) yesterday said calls by the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN) for a vigilante group in the Southeast to protect its members was not necessary, as such vigilante have always existed for decades in the zone. The insurgents were neutralised, while soldiers were escorting commuters and traders along the road on Saturday.In a statement in Maiduguri yesterday, Army Spokesman, Col. Sagir Musa, disclosed that the troops had a fierce encounter with terrorists’ ambush team craving for food and other essentials for survival.

Source: The Guardian June 24, 2019 03:45 UTC