🇳🇬 6 Brigade Debunks False Reports On Death Of Lt Col Okoye, Says Officer Died After Illness

Headquarters 6 Brigade Nigerian Army/Sector 3 Operation Whirl Stroke has dismissed social media reports linking the death of Lieutenant Colonel Emmanuel Gabriel Okoye to operational activity, clarifying that the senior officer died after a brief illness.

Desk: Defence & Security 

Date: Thursday, 18 June 2026

Time: 20:00 WAT

Location: Makurdi, Nigeria

The Brigade stated in a release issued by the Acting Assistant Director Army Public Relations, Lieutenant Umar Muhammad, that Lt Col Okoye, who commanded 20 Model Battalion, passed away on 13 June 2026 under circumstances unrelated to any bandit attack or field operation.

Army Rejects Misinformation On Circumstances Of Death

According to the statement, the clarification became necessary following the circulation of unverified claims on social media suggesting the officer’s death resulted from a security incident.

The Brigade described the reports as false, misleading and insensitive, noting that official records confirm the officer’s passing was due to illness and had already been communicated through appropriate channels.

Concerns Over Spread Of Unverified Narratives

6 Brigade expressed concern over the growing spread of misinformation capable of causing distress to personnel, families and the general public, warning against speculation in the absence of verified facts.

It urged media practitioners and social media users to rely strictly on official military communication channels for accurate information on sensitive matters.

Army Pays Tribute To Late Officer

The Nigerian Army described the late Lt Col Okoye as a dedicated officer who served with professionalism and honour, adding that the institution continues to mourn his passing and prays for the repose of his soul.

The Brigade reaffirmed its commitment to transparency and responsible information management within the Armed Forces.

🏷️ Tags: Nigerian Army, 6 Brigade, Lt Col Okoye, Operation Whirl Stroke, Military Information, Fake News, Defence Communication

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