The Nigerian military has warned the Chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) Mangu Chapter, Reverend Timothy Daluk, as tensions escalate in Plateau State.
Accusing him of spreading falsehoods, the military cautioned Reverend Daluk to cease such actions immediately.
The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) accused Reverend Daluk of making baseless and untrue accusations against the military personnel deployed in the Mangu general area.
Brigadier General Tukur Gusau, the Acting Director of Defence Information, stated in a press release that any person spreading false information would face constitutional consequences, irrespective of their societal standing.
The military strongly condemned a video allegedly made by Reverend Daluk, suggesting bias and support for a specific group.
Brigadier General Gusau dismissed the allegations as lacking any reasonable foundation, emphasizing that the military remains neutral, professional, and committed to its constitutional role of safeguarding citizens’ lives and property.
The statement read: “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.
“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.
“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 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.”
I have not watched the video but if the CAN Chairman in Mangu Local Government Area of Plateau State, Rev Timothy Daluk uttered these statements as reported by Lindaikejisblog, then he overstepped:
“We don’t want the military in Mangu Local Government. They should pack their loads and go. We don’t want them. We don’t need them and we don’t want them. Because of the plan, they have been bought. They have been paid a price to carry out their duty…
…I will organise the whole Christians in Mangu Local Government Area. We are going to fight. We are not going to stop…”
To me, I find these implicating and should be withdrawn.