The Nigerian Army has invited journalists and civil society organisations to visit operational areas in Imo State where troops say improvised explosive devices (IEDs) were recovered, following social media claims that images released by the military were manipulated.
The invitation comes after online posts disputed photographs published on 12 March showing explosives allegedly recovered during security operations in Orsu-Eketutu Mother Valley and Orsu-Ihiteukwa.
In a statement, the Army said the images were taken during ongoing operations conducted in parts of Imo and Anambra states. It explained that the location data on the photographs was deliberately blurred for operational security.
According to the military, the decision was intended to protect troops and ongoing missions rather than conceal where the images were taken.
Some social media users linked to the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) had claimed the photographs were fabricated or taken outside the South-East.
The Army said troops involved in the operation have dismantled camps and facilities allegedly used by the group’s armed wing, the Eastern Security Network (ESN).
To address the controversy, the military invited journalists and civil society representatives interested in verifying the claims to arrange inspection visits through the public relations office of the 82 Division Nigerian Army.
The Army also urged Nigerians to verify information from credible sources before sharing it online.
