- Defence Headquarters denies bias allegations in the Mangu operation and labels the Christian Association of Nigeria Chairman’s claims as false and malicious
- Brigadier Tukur Gusau emphasizes the military’s professionalism, warns against spreading falsehoods, and cautions against baseless accusations
The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has vehemently denied allegations of bias in the military’s operation in Mangu town, Plateau State, responding to claims made by the Chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) in Mangu, Rev. Timothy Daluk.
In a viral video, Daluk accused deployed soldiers of favouritism, alleging that they allowed Muslims to burn houses. In a statement, Brigadier General Tukur Gusau, Acting Director of Defence Information, labelled Daluk’s comments as false and lacking any reasonable foundation.
“The video, circulating in the media, aims to malign military personnel deployed to address the security challenges in the Mangu general area,” stated Brigadier Tukur Gusau. “We categorically state that these accusations hold no truth, are malicious and lack any reasonable foundation.”
Brigadier Tukur Gusau provided context, explaining that on January 23, 2024, a security breach in Mangu led to the Plateau State Government declaring a 24-hour curfew. Operation SAFE HAVEN troops were reinforced in Mangu to enforce the curfew and control the situation. The military, according to Brigadier Tukur Gusau, carried out their duties professionally, arresting criminals involved in looting and burning properties while recovering weapons.
Expressing concern over a religious leader spreading falsehoods, Brigadier Tukur Gusau emphasized the military’s neutrality, professionalism, and commitment to its constitutional role of protecting citizens. He warned against baseless accusations, urging the public to support ongoing military operations to restore peace.
“We strongly caution individuals 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,” Brigadier Tukur Gusau added.