RismadarVoice Reporters, June 19, 2026
The Headquarters of the 6 Brigade Nigerian Army and Sector 3 of Operation Whirl Stroke have dismissed reports alleging that the late Commanding Officer of the 20 Model Battalion, Lieutenant Colonel Emmanuel Gabriel Okoye, was killed during a bandit attack.
The military authority described the claims circulating on social media as false, misleading and lacking factual basis, insisting that the senior officer died following a brief illness.
The clarification was contained in a statement issued on Thursday by Lieutenant Umar Muhammad, Acting Assistant Director of Army Public Relations for the 6 Brigade.
According to the Army, Lt. Col. Okoye passed away on June 13, 2026, and his death was not connected to any military operation, armed attack, or encounter with bandits as widely speculated on some online platforms.
The statement emphasised that the circumstances surrounding the officer’s death had already been communicated through appropriate official channels and should not be distorted by misinformation.
“The reports suggesting that Lieutenant Colonel Emmanuel Gabriel Okoye was killed in a bandit attack are misleading, inaccurate and devoid of verified facts,” the statement said.
“Lt. Col. Okoye died on June 13, 2026, after a brief illness and not as a result of any operational incident or attack by bandits. The circumstances surrounding his demise are clear and have been duly communicated through official channels.”
The Army expressed concern over the growing circulation of unverified information regarding the death of the officer, warning that such narratives have the potential to create unnecessary fear and confusion among military personnel and the public.
Military authorities described the false reports as insensitive, particularly to the bereaved family, friends and colleagues of the deceased officer who are still mourning his passing.
According to the Brigade, the spread of inaccurate information not only misrepresents the facts but also undermines the dignity and memory of the late officer.
The Army noted that some individuals and media platforms published the claims without first seeking confirmation from official military sources, a practice it said contributes to the spread of misinformation.
The military urged journalists, bloggers and members of the public to exercise caution when reporting sensitive matters, especially those involving national security and the welfare of military personnel.
It stressed the importance of verifying information through credible and official channels before publication.
The Army further called on citizens to refrain from sharing unsubstantiated reports capable of generating unnecessary anxiety among serving personnel, their families and the wider public.
“The circulation of unverified information can create needless concern and undermine public confidence. We therefore urge media practitioners and members of the public to verify facts through official channels before disseminating information,” the statement added.
Reaffirming its commitment to transparency and professionalism, the Nigerian Army stated that it remains dedicated to providing timely and accurate information regarding its activities and personnel.
The military also encouraged the public to rely on official communication platforms for authentic updates and clarifications concerning military operations and developments.
The Army expressed appreciation to Nigerians who have continued to support the Armed Forces and extended its condolences to the family, friends and colleagues of the late Lieutenant Colonel Emmanuel Gabriel Okoye.
It described the deceased officer as a dedicated and committed military professional whose service to the nation would be remembered with honour and respect.
They urged the public to disregard all reports linking the officer’s death to bandit attacks, maintaining that he died after a brief illness and not in the line of combat operations.
