By Adadareporters
Concerned stakeholders should shun the spread of falsehood with respect to the security challenges in Mangu Local Government Area of Plateau State.
Recall that the state government recently imposed a curfew in the area due to insecurity.
The warning was contained in a press statement issued by Brigadier General Tukur Gusau, spokesman of the Defence Headquarters, on Thursday.
Gen Gusau warned that anyone caught maligning the military as well as undermining the efforts to bring peace to the affected areas would face the wrath of the law in accordance with the extant law no matter his status in the society.
He condemned claims of bias against troops engaged to restore peace in Mangu. The chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria, CAN, Mangu Chapter, RevTimothy Daluk, had alleged insincerity on the part of the troops.
The military spokesman said Daluk’s claims were baseless, malicious and lack any reasonable foundation.
According to him, “It is deeply disturbing that a religious leader, who is expected to demonstrate high level 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.
“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 strongly caution individuals involved in making malicious comments against the military to cease from such acts. Henceforth, any person found spreading falsehoods will face constitutional redress, regardless of their status in society,” he said.
He commended law-abiding citizens for their cooperation, assuring the public of the commitment of the military towards enthroning peace and lasting security in the country.
He added 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.
Quoting him, “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 property, as well as recovered weapons.”
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