The Defence Headquarters, DHQ, has warned persons spreading false information to malign the military to desist from it
The Acting Director Defence Information, Brigadier Tukur Gusau in a statement handed down the warning while reacting to a video made by the Chairman Christian Association of Nigeria, CAN, Mangu Chapter, Reverend Timothy Daluk.
He said: “The attention of the Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has been drawn to a malicious video made by the Chairman Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) Mangu Chapter, Reverend Timothy Daluk.
“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.”
Describing the video as “Baseless, malicious, fake and misleading”, the DHQ cautioned that henceforth, anyone found culpable will be held accountable.
According to him, it is important to recall that on 23 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.
He said that “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”.
“The troops have carried out their duties professionally and in accordance with the rules of engagement. They have successfully arrested criminals involved in looting and burning of properties, 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. 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”, he said.
The Military therefore called on the public to support the ongoing its operations aimed at decimating non-state actors operating in troubled areas of the State.
“We will not be distracted by baseless accusations and remain steadfast in our commitment to restoring peace and security.”
