The Nigeria Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has denied statements made by the Chairman Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) Mangu Chapter, Reverend Timothy Daluk, against military personnel over their handling of the security issue in Plateau State.

In a statement by a spokesperson for DHQ, Brigadier General Tukur Gusau said Reverend Daluk in a viral video accused military personnel of bias towards certain groups of people over others.

On Tuesday, 23 January 2024, many people were reported killed, with several houses torched, during an attack on Sabon-gari village in Mangu LGA of Plateau state.

Plateau State governor, Caleb Mutfwang, thereafter imposed a 24-hour curfew in Mangu LGA.

Tuesday’s attack was the latest in recent weeks as several communities in Mangu have experienced recurring attacks by gunmen.

Following the incident, Daluk in the video questioned military personnel on the way they have been addressing the situation in the affected area.

However, DHQ has described the claims made by the clergyman as malicious.

“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.

“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.”

It explained 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.

It stated that troops have carried out their duties professionally and in accordance with the rules of engagement, and have successfully arrested criminals involved in looting and burning of properties, as well as recovered weapons.

Also, DHQ expressed displeasure 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.”
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