Army Debunks Reports Linking Death Of Battalion Commander To Bandit Attack

The Headquarters of 6 Brigade of the Nigerian Army/Sector 3 Operation Whirl Stroke (OPWS), has dismissed reports circulating on social media alleging that the late Commanding Officer of 20 Model Battalion, Serti, Taraba State, Lieutenant Colonel Emmanuel Gabriel Okoye, was killed in a bandit attack.

In a statement issued to LEADERSHIP  by the Acting Assistant Director, Army Public Relations, 6 Brigade Nigerian Army, Lieutenant Umar Muhammad, the Army described the reports as misleading, inaccurate and unfounded.

According to the statement, Lt. Col. Okoye died on June 13, 2026, following a brief illness and not as a result of any operational incident or attack by criminal elements as suggested in some online publications.

“For the avoidance of doubt, Lieutenant Colonel Emmanuel Gabriel Okoye passed away on 13 June 2026 after a brief illness.

“His death was neither the result of a bandit attack nor any operational incident, as falsely insinuated in some social media reports,” the statement said.

The Army noted that, the circumstances surrounding the officer’s death had been clearly established and communicated through official channels, and warned against the spread of unverified information and speculation.

It expressed concern that false narratives surrounding the death of the senior officer could create unnecessary anxiety among military personnel, their families and the general public.

The statement further described the circulation of unsubstantiated reports as insensitive to the family of the deceased and disrespectful to his memory.

The Brigade, therefore urged journalists and members of the public to rely on verified information from official sources and avoid sharing reports capable of undermining public confidence.

“Members of the public and media practitioners are advised to disregard these misleading reports and refrain from sharing unsubstantiated information,” the Army said.

While reaffirming its commitment to transparency and professionalism, the Brigade encouraged the public to seek clarification through official military communication channels whenever necessary.

The Nigerian Army further paid tribute to the late officer, describing him as a dedicated and professional soldier who served the nation with honour and distinction.

The Army said it continued to mourn his passing and prayed for the peaceful repose of his soul.