The military high command has said it is not in anyway aiding and profiting from terrorism and banditry in the country.
Military’s statement was against the backdrop of comments by the governor of Katsina State alleging that terrorism is festering in the country because military was making gains from it.
According to the spokesman, Defence Media Operation (DMO), Major General Edward Buba, the attention of the Defence Headquarters was drawn to the weighty allegation labelled against the Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN) by the Executive Governor of Katsina State, Governor Dikko Radda.
“The Governor granted an interview on Channels television programme ‘Politics Today’ on April 5, 2024 alleging that the Military is aiding and profiting from terrorism activities in Katsina State.
“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 join words with the state governor, rather would encourage him to approach the military high command to substantiate his allegations.
“It is worthy of note to state that, the AFN led by the Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, has zero tolerance for indiscipline and any form of criminality in the conduct of operations across the country.
“It is for this reason that, there are standing court martials to treat any form of misbehaviour by troops especially those that portray the military negatively to the general populace.
“Meanwhile, the military remains unperturbed by such statements capable of demoralizing or dampening the spirit of troops in operational theatres. Rather, we will continue on the trajectory of conducting operations as well as working assiduously in the fight against terrorism.
“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.” General Buba said.