The 1 Division of the Nigerian Army, Kaduna, on Tuesday dismissed reports that troops had killed 17 herdsmen in Southern Kaduna.

A statement issued in Kaduna by the Deputy Director, Army Public Relations, Col. Kingsley Umoh, described the report as unfounded and irresponsible.

He said the mandate of the army in the area was to restore peace and ensure mutual coexistence among the people, and warned those spreading the false reports to desist.

The army spokesman stressed that personnel deployed to the area had developed robust relationship with traditional rulers, community leaders, the Miyetti Allah and other stakeholders.

“We appeal to citizens, community leaders and other stakeholders to always speak and act in the interest of peace.

“It serves no useful purposes to continue to fabricate stories about the already delicate security situation in southern Kaduna,” he said.

Umoh said the army remained committed to the return of peace to the entire area.

NAN