Jul 4, 2026

VIDEO: Military Helicopter Airlifts Injured Terrorists in Niger State, Whistleblower Alleges

By Afolabi Olaiya Idowu in news

👁️ loading views...

ABUJA, Nigeria — A viral video by prominent Nigerian whistleblower John Aruma Azi, popularly known as D English Alhaji, has triggered widespread shock and anger across the country.

In the footage, Alhaji claims Nigerian Army personnel used a military helicopter — funded by taxpayers — to airlift injured terrorists following a fierce gun battle between rival bandit groups in Niger State.

According to the whistleblower, the incident occurred on July 2, 2026, in the Kaboji area under Mashegu Local Government Area.

A violent clash erupted between factions loyal to notorious bandit kingpin Dogon Gida and another group identified as Lakurawa, reportedly over demands for “zakat” (tribute) from cattle under Dogon Gida’s control.

Alhaji alleges that after Lakurawa initially gained the upper hand, Dogon Gida summoned reinforcements. Following the confrontation, a Nigerian Army helicopter was deployed to the scene.

Injured fighters from Dogon Gida’s group were reportedly evacuated for medical treatment, with the kingpin himself allegedly boarding the aircraft.

“This is what happened that made the Nigerian Army waste taxpayers’ money to use a helicopter to airlift terrorists,” Alhaji stated in the video, describing the action as preferential “presidential treatment” for insurgents while innocent Nigerians continue to suffer the brunt of terrorism and banditry.

The video, shared widely on social media, has ignited intense debate. Many Nigerians express disbelief and frustration, questioning the military’s strategy in the ongoing battle against insecurity.

Comments range from accusations of collusion to demands for immediate clarification from the Nigerian Army and relevant authorities.

Critics argue that such actions, if verified, undermine public trust in security forces and suggest possible compromises in the fight against terrorism.

Others point out the high operational costs of military helicopters and the irony of using them to aid fighters responsible for widespread violence, kidnappings, and deaths across northern Nigeria.

This latest allegation emerges against a backdrop of persistent security challenges in Niger State and surrounding regions.

Banditry, farmer-herder conflicts, and activities of groups like Boko Haram continue to plague communities, displacing thousands and disrupting livelihoods despite repeated military operations and government assurances.

English Alhaji, known for his on-the-ground reporting from conflict zones, has positioned himself as a voice highlighting perceived failures or inconsistencies in Nigeria’s security architecture.

While his claims often generate significant attention, they also spark calls for thorough verification to separate facts from unconfirmed reports.

As of now, there has been no official response from the Nigerian Army or the Defence Headquarters regarding the specific claims in the video.

The absence of immediate rebuttal or confirmation has only fueled further speculation and public demands for transparency.

Incidents like this, whether proven or otherwise, highlight deeper systemic issues: the complexity of counter-insurgency operations, intelligence challenges, potential infiltration of security networks, and the heavy toll on public confidence.

In a country where millions live under the constant threat of violence, any perception of leniency toward perpetrators can severely damage morale and legitimacy.

The story also underscores the power of citizen journalism and whistleblowing in holding institutions accountable in the digital age.

Platforms like Parallel Facts continue to amplify such voices, contributing to a more informed — if sometimes polarized — national conversation.

As Nigerians grapple with economic hardships and security fears, the call for effective, transparent, and uncompromising action against terrorism grows louder.

Whether this particular video leads to formal investigations or fades remains to be seen, but it has undeniably added fuel to ongoing debates about the true state of Nigeria’s war on terror.

For now, the images and narration from English Alhaji have left many asking tough questions: Whose side are the helicopters really serving, and at what cost to the Nigerian people.