The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has refuted claims made by the Turkish Ambassador-designate to Nigeria, Mehmet Poroy, regarding the existence of a new terrorist group operating in Nigeria after allegedly migrating from Türkiye.
Poroy, during an event marking Turkey’s Democracy and National Unity Day, alleged that members of the Fethullah Terrorist Organisation (FETO) were active in Nigeria under the cover of educational and healthcare institutions. He warned that such groups pose a threat to countries where they are present, especially in sectors like education and healthcare.
In response on Thursday, the Director of Defence Media Operations, Major General Markus Kangye, said the DHQ does not recognise Poroy’s statement as an official or verified report. He stressed that Nigeria is a sovereign nation capable of making independent decisions, particularly concerning national security and counterterrorism.
“As far as the Defence Headquarters is concerned, the information from the person you referred to is not official. Everyone has the right to express their opinions, but Nigeria is an independent country that can think and act for itself,” Kangye said.
While acknowledging Nigeria’s diplomatic and security partnerships with other nations, Kangye cautioned against accepting unverified external claims that could undermine national integrity or fuel suspicion.
“There are propagandists all over the world. Psychological warfare happens everywhere. That’s why we must remain vigilant,” he added.
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He reaffirmed that Nigeria’s approach to fighting terrorism remains rooted in national interests, guided by domestic intelligence and strategic priorities.
