The Joint Task Force (JTF) Operation Enduring Peace has dismissed reports circulating online alleging that soldiers deployed to evacuate corpses of church members killed by suspected Fulani militias in Jos were forced to seek permission from the attackers before accessing the scene.

According to a statement issued on Tuesday by Major Samson Nantip Zhakom, Media Information Officer of the operation, the viral publication which cited an unnamed clergyman claimed that soldiers told a pastor they could not recover the victims’ bodies without clearance from the assailants.

The report further alleged that the incident left grieving relatives unable to retrieve the remains of their loved ones.

Major Zhakom, however, described the report as “a continuation of unsubstantiated claims” by certain religious figures aimed at inciting public sentiment against security agencies operating within the Joint Operations Area (JOA). He drew parallels with previous allegations made by one Rev. Dachomo, which were similarly found to lack credible evidence.

“The recent publication insinuating that soldiers beg killers for permission to recover church members’ bodies follows a growing pattern of misinformation designed to erode public trust in security agencies,” the statement read. “A close review of the report reveals inconsistencies no specific date, location, or verifiable identity of the said pastor suggesting a deliberate attempt to mislead the public.”

Major Zhakom expressed concern that some religious leaders, rather than fostering peace, are contributing to a “subtle campaign of misinformation” that undermines the morale of troops and ongoing peace-building efforts in Plateau State and other affected areas.

He reaffirmed that Operation Enduring Peace remains steadfast in its professional mandate, maintaining neutrality and a rapid response posture while ensuring the protection of all citizens, regardless of ethnic or religious background.

“Despite these distractions, our commitment to impartiality, professionalism, and collaboration with genuine community and religious leaders remains unwavering,” the statement concluded.