The Joint Task Force (JTF) Operation ENDURING PEACE (OPEP) has dismissed a recent online report alleging that soldiers deployed to recover bodies of church members killed by suspected Fulani militias in Jos sought permission from the attackers before accessing the scene.
JTF OPEP’s Media Information Officer, Major Samson Zhakom on Tuesday, described the report as false, misleading, and designed to incite public distrust in security agencies.
The publication, which surfaced on 13 October 2025, quoted an unnamed pastor claiming during a church service that troops told him they could not move in to evacuate the corpses without first getting clearance from the militias. The report further accused the military of inaction, calling on the Federal Government to intervene.
According to the Force, the story fits a growing pattern of unsubstantiated allegations by certain religious figures seeking to whip up sentiments in the Joint Operations Area (JOA).
Zhakom recalled a similar incident involving one Rev Dachomo who had previously made sweeping accusations against security forces without credible evidence. A review of the latest report, the JTF noted, revealed glaring inconsistencies — including the absence of a specific date, location, or verifiable identity of the supposed pastor — suggesting a deliberate attempt to misinform the public.
“It is concerning that some religious leaders, instead of promoting peace, are fueling distrust through misinformation,” the statement read, warning that such actions could jeopardize ongoing peace-building efforts.
Despite the misinformation, Operation ENDURING PEACE reaffirmed its professionalism and neutrality, emphasizing its unwavering commitment to protect all citizens regardless of ethnic or religious affiliation.
The Force also pledged to continue engaging credible community and religious leaders to sustain peace across the region.
