Shooting In Ohafia: Why Farmers, Locals Should Steer Clear Military Barracks In Abia Community

Following a purported report that the shooting in Ohafia, Abia State is between the men of unknown gunmen and the Nigerian Army, AbaCityBlog has obtained a press release by the NA that counters the report.

A report by an online blog (Not AbaCityBlog) alleged the there was a shooting in Ohafia between the Army and unknown gunmen and that have caused palpable tension in the community, fact-check proved the reports to be false.

However, The Nigeria Army yesterday, Thursday, 21 July – in a press statement advised farmers and locals in Ohafia, Abia State, to steer clear from its range site at the the Goodluck Ebele Jonathan Barracks, as troops commence range classification.

In the release signed by the 14 Brigade Public Relations Officer, Lieutenant Innocent Omale, said the exercise which will involve firing of live ammunition, will begin today, July 22, and last for two weeks.

The release made available to Vanguard read in part:

”In preparation for the 82 Division Inter-Brigade Combat Proficiency Competition, Headquarters 14 Brigade Nigerian Army, Ohafia will commence range classification at the range site in Goodluck Ebele Jonathan Barracks, Ohafia, Abia State.”

”The exercise which will last for two weeks from 22 July – 5 August, 2022, will involves firing of live ammunition at the range site. The exercise is to prepare contingents of 14 Brigade for the forthcoming shooting competition with other Brigades soon.”

The release, however, enjoined members of the public especially the communities around the Barracks, not to panic.

“The populace and farmers in the area are to steer clear within the general area for this period”, the release added.