63 BRIGADE REFUTES EXTORTION, ASSAULT ALLEGATIONS, CLARIFIES IBUSA INCIDENT

63 BRIGADE REFUTES EXTORTION, ASSAULT ALLEGATIONS, CLARIFIES IBUSA INCIDENT

Headquarters 63 Brigade/Sector 1 Joint Task Force (South South), Operation DELTA SAFE, has noted a video circulating on social media alleging extortion and assault by troops deployed in Oshimili North Local Government Area of Delta State. The Brigade wishes to clarify the circumstances surrounding the incident to correct the misleading impression created by the video.

Ibusa community has experienced recurring security challenges, including cult-related clashes, armed robbery and communal disturbances, necessitating the deployment of troops to support civil authorities in maintaining law and order. The presence of troops has significantly contributed to improving the security situation in the general area.

Accordingly, on 3 November 2026, at about 2200 hours (10:00pm), following reports of cult-related clashes, troops established a snap checkpoint to restore calm and apprehend suspected perpetrators. During the operation, three individuals approaching the checkpoint were requested to stop for identification and routine security checks. However, they refused to comply, prompting troops to approach them for further scrutiny.

In the course of the encounter, one of the individuals attempted to dispossess a soldier of his rifle and succeeded in removing its magazine but sustained an injury to his hand from its sharp edges. The troops subsequently escorted the injured individual and the other two persons to a nearby pharmacy for first aid before conveying them to Headquarters 63 Brigade for further medical attention and investigation. Preliminary findings indicate that the three individuals confessed to involvement in cult-related activities and internet fraud.

The Brigade categorically states that extortion or solicitation of gratification is contrary to the professional standards and operational ethos of the Nigerian Army. Preliminary investigations further indicate that the individual who circulated the video is an IPOB fugitive sympathetic to the suspects. He was not present at the scene but operating from Ghana. He therefore lacked first-hand knowledge of the incident. More worrisome is his link to publishing content that seeks to discredit security agencies.

The Brigade urges members of the public to disregard unverified accounts and exercise caution when sharing information capable of misleading the public and undermining confidence in security agencies.

The Commander, 63 Brigade/Sector 1 Joint Task Force (South South), Operation DELTA SAFE, has urged residents of Ibusa and the general public to remain calm and continue supporting security agencies with credible information. He reaffirmed the Brigade’s commitment to supporting civil authorities, protecting lives and property and discharging its constitutional responsibilities professionally and in accordance with extant laws. He further warn individuals involving in cultism and other criminal activities to desist from such acts to avoid being subjected to full wrath of the law

ILIYASU BAWA RIJAU
Acting Assistant Director, Army Public Relations
63 Brigade, Nigerian Army
Asaba
4 November 2026