Military Challenges Katsina Governor to Substantiate Terrorism Allegations | ClipTV Online

The Nigerian Military has called on the Katsina State Governor, Dikko Radda, to provide evidence supporting his recent allegations against the military. Governor Radda, during an appearance on Channels Television’s “Politics Today” on April 5, 2024, accused the military of aiding and profiting from terrorism in Katsina State.

In response, the Director of Defence Media Operations, Maj. Gen. Buba Edward, released a statement on Wednesday, emphasizing the military’s commitment to maintaining its integrity and operational focus despite the governor’s claims.

“The attention of the Defence Headquarters has been drawn to a weighty allegation labelled against the Armed Forces of Nigeria by the Executive Governor of Katsina State, His Excellency Governor Dikko Radda. The governor granted an interview on Channels Television programme ‘Politics Today’ on 5 April 2024, alleging that the military is aiding and profiting from terrorism activities in Katsina State,” Edward stated.

He continued, “The AFN is hereby making it unequivocally clear that it is subservient to all elected government representatives and, therefore, regards the relationship with utmost respect. In the light of the aforementioned statement of His Excellency, the Governor of Katsina State, the AFN elects not to trade words with the state governor but rather would encourage him to approach the military high command to substantiate his allegations.”

Maj. Gen. Edward stressed that the military is dedicated to its mission and will not be deterred by statements that could demoralize its troops. “We will continue on the trajectory of conducting operations as well as working assiduously in the fight against terrorism,” he affirmed.

He also highlighted the military’s strict adherence to discipline and accountability, noting the existence of court-martials to address any misconduct among troops. “It is worthy of note to state that, the AFN led by the Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa OFR, has zero tolerance for indiscipline and any form of criminality in the conduct of operations across the country,” Edward stated.

The Defence Headquarters urged Nigerian citizens to support the military and report any observed misconduct within its ranks. “Overall, the Armed Forces is for Nigerians and as such citizens are urged to own it and also report any credible observed bad conduct within the ranks so that they can face the appropriate military justice system,” Maj. Gen. Edward concluded.

The Defence Headquarters’ call for substantiation reflects its commitment to transparency and accountability while underscoring the importance of collaborative efforts in combating terrorism and ensuring national security.