The Nigeria Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has denied that soldiers deployed to Plateau State over escalating insecurity were supporting a particular faction in the conflict as alleged by the Chairman Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) Mangu Chapter, Reverend Timothy Daluk.
The Acting Director of Defence Information, Brigadier General, Tukur Gusau, said that the allegation against the military was made by Daluk in a “malicious video.”
been drawn to a malicious video made by the Chairman Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) Mangu Chapter, Reverend Timothy Daluk.
He said: “The video has been circulating in the media, aiming to malign military personnel deployed to address the security challenges in the Mangu general area.
“The video made baseless and untrue accusations, claiming that the military is biased and supports a particular group against others. We categorically state that these accusations hold no truth, are malicious and lack any reasonable foundation.”
Gusau said that it was important to recall that on the 23rd of January 2024, there was a breach of security in the Mangu municipal area, resulting in the Government of Plateau State declaring a 24-hour curfew.
Troops of Operation SAFE HAVEN were reinforced in Mangu to enforce the curfew and bring the situation under control, thereby preventing its spread to other areas.
He explained that the troops have carried out their duties professionally and by the rules of engagement, stressing that successfully arrested criminals involved in looting and burning of property, as well as recovered weapons.
“It is deeply disturbing that a religious leader, who is expected to demonstrate high levels of moral judgement and truthfulness, has resorted to spreading falsehoods about the military and its personnel,” said Gusau.
He added: “ We want to reiterate that the military remains neutral, focused, professional and committed to its constitutional role of protecting the lives and property of law-abiding citizens. We will deal with anybody found disobeying the law, without bias or prejudice.
“We therefore call upon the public to support the ongoing military operations aimed at decimating non-state actors operating in these troubled areas of the State. We will not be distracted by baseless accusations and remain steadfast in our commitment to restoring peace and security.
“We strongly caution individuals involved in making malicious comments against the military to cease such acts. Henceforth, any person found spreading falsehoods will face constitutional redress, regardless of their status in society.
“We sincerely appreciate the law-abiding citizens for their support and cooperation and assure the public of our unwavering dedication to preserving peace and security in the country.”
