The Defence Headquarters has urged Governor Dikko Radda of Katsina to approach the military high command to substantiate his allegation that the military has been aiding and profiting from terrorism activities in the state.
This was contained in a statement issued by the Director, Defence Media Operations, Maj. Gen. Edward Buba, on Wednesday in Abuja.
Buba said the governor made the allegation when he granted an interview on Channels television programme, ‘Politics Today’ on April 5.
According to him, the military is subservient to all elected government representatives and therefore regards the relationship with the utmost respect.
“In light of the aforementioned statement of the governor, the armed forces of Nigeria elect not to join words with him but 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, Gen. 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 demoralising 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,” he said.
Insecurity: Substantiate allegations against military — DHQ challenges Katsina State Governor