The Nigerian Army has warned herdsmen to desist from dragging it into any propaganda.
It denied allegations that soldiers killed 17 cattle rearers in Southern Kaduna.
Chairman of the Kaduna State Chapter of the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN), Haruna Usman, had alleged that the attack happened in Daile Alkariyo village in Jama’a local government area of Kaduna State on Monday.
Usman claimed many herdsmen sustained injuries and some were arrested, while 47 houses were destroyed by the soldiers.
“A farmer was attacked in the community and they invited soldiers to settle the situation,” he told reporters on Tuesday.
“When the security personnel arrived, they started to kill our people. As I speak to you now, about 17 of our members have been killed and 47 houses burnt.
“The military men burnt their homes and killed them. In fact one old man, almost 75 years old, was shot on the leg, he has only one leg, but they shot the other leg”, he alleged.
But the army spokesman, Brigadier General Kukasheka Usman, said the allegations were untrue.
“The allegation is most unfortunate and it is not true. It is most uncharitable and irresponsible of anyone to say so.
“Our soldiers have been selfless, professional and impartial in the discharge of their duties. The extent of our sacrifice and determination to bring peace and security is unquestionable.
“They should not in any way drag us into their propaganda. The unfortunate incident would be investigated and the whole world will know the truth”, he said.
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