The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), Gen. Chris Musa, has reassured Nigerians of the military’s dedication to addressing security challenges. However, he expressed concern that misinformation has contributed to the incorrect perception of the military and the increase in violence in communities.
He emphasized the military’s impartiality and called for mutual understanding between soldiers and the communities where they are stationed.
The Chief of Defence Staff made these remarks during a national convention/retreat on civil society/military partnership in mitigating crises in the North Central region, held by the Middle Belt Journalists Forum (MBJF) in Jos, Plateau State.
Represented by Brigadier-General Michael Agi, the Chief of Staff at Operation Safe Haven, OpSH, the CDS said: “You have resolved to be a part of a sustainable effort to clear either the misinformation or effects of fake news, especially in the social media, which is largely accountable for the wrong perceptions of the military and the escalations of killings in the region.
“This retreat is coming at the right time when misinformation about our operations is undermining our strong determination to end terrorism and banditry.
“Let me assure Nigerians of the neutrality of the armed forces in dealing with ugly challenges facing the nation generally and the region in particular.
“I have listened to your complaints and we will address them squarely… the soldiers you see fighting for you are your soldiers, they need your support, especially on information.”
In his address, Governor Caleb Mutfwang of Plateau State emphasized his administration’s collaboration with members of the press to foster peaceful coexistence among residents, regardless of their affiliations.
Represented by Samuel Tsoho, the Permanent Secretary of the State Ministry of Information and Communication, the governor revealed the establishment of a committee tasked with facilitating the return of internally displaced persons (IDPs) to their original homes. He underscored the significance of the retreat in addressing the security challenges facing the Middle Belt region.
Professor Sampson Terwase from the National Defence College, Abuja, delivered the keynote speech, advocating for increased advocacy and public awareness to enhance understanding between citizens and the military in combating insecurity.
Jonathan Ipaa, the President of the Forum, and other speakers, including Aboi Madaki, the National President of Plateau Initiative for the Advancement of the Natives (PIDAN), urged immediate action to end insecurity and ensure food security. They highlighted the economic vulnerability of the Middle Belt region, emphasizing the urgent need to address the ongoing threats.
According to him, the food basket is empty and the markets are now occupied by the attackers. “PIDAN decried the fact that farmlands had been taken over by herders who graze and settle on them, chasing the natives into camps.
He insisted that Middle Belt people were not beggars but a people who needed security from marauding killers to enable them go back to the farms.
“People now farm within communities, while vast farmlands are occupied by terrorists. This is affecting us terribly in terms of food production,” he said.