The Nigerian Army has denied media reports alleging a protest in Enugu following the discovery of a live explosive device on farmland.

Lieutenant Colonel Jonah Eromosele Unuakhalu, acting deputy director of 82 Division Army Public Relations, said in a statement that the reports are unsubstantiated, describing them as misleading and lacking any credible verification.

According to the statement, preliminary findings indicated that no such protest occurred and that the narrative appears to be designed to incite unwarranted fear and tension within Ochima and adjoining communities in Udi Local Government Area of Enugu State.

Lt Col Unuakhalu said: “The Nigerian Army remains fully committed to the safety and security of all citizens. We have standard operating procedures in place for the employment, handling, and disposal of explosive ordnance whenever necessary, which entails checks and safety measures in collaboration with relevant security agencies.”

The statement assured the good people of Enugu State and, indeed, South Easterners, that findings revealed no immediate threat or cause for alarm in relation to the unfounded story.

The Nigerian Army urged members of the public to remain calm and refrain from disseminating false or unverified information. It also called on media practitioners to uphold the highest standards of responsible journalism by verifying information with relevant authorities before publication.

According to the statement, the spread of inaccurate reports not only misinforms the public but also undermine collective efforts to maintain stability.