Pix: Gen. Musa
By Mark Mayah
The Defence Headquarters has countered an editorial written by a national daily which accused the Armed Forces of Nigeria of lawlessness particularly on the recent attacks personnel Ikeja Electricity Distribution Company, describing it as misleading and lacking in proper journalistic due diligence Newspaper subscriptions.
In a statement by Brigadier General Tukur Gusau, Director of Defence Information, accused the paper of generalizing an isolated incident to tarnish the image of the military and the Chief of Defence Staff.
“The editorial’s attempt to vilify or cast aspersion on the person of General Musa and the Service Chiefs as tacitly supporting impunity is an unfair and inaccurate representation,” said Gusau.
He criticized the editorial for not adhering to basic journalistic standards, particularly in terms of fact-checking. “It would have been more appropriate to consult with the military hierarchy before passing such a sweeping judgment,” Gusau added.
The statement also addressed concerns raised in the editorial regarding the handling of previous incidents of military misconduct, which the newspaper suggested had been dismissed without proper punitive action Newspaper subscriptions
The defence spokesperson rejected this notion, asserting that the military had consistently taken appropriate steps to investigate and discipline erring personnel.
He pointed out that the Armed Forces of Nigeria has well-established mechanisms, such as the military police and the Intelligence Corps, tasked with ensuring accountability and upholding military discipline.
“Contrary to what was stated in the editorial, we have zero tolerance for indiscipline, and the AFN has functioning Court Marshals at all levels to ensure accountability,” said Gusau. “These bodies are committed to safeguarding the rights of citizens and maintaining respect for the rule of law.”
also emphasized the role of the military in upholding the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and maintaining national security.
Gusau concluded by reaffirming the military’s commitment to its constitutional duties, stressing that the Armed Forces under General Musa’s leadership would remain focused, disciplined, and dedicated to the country’s well-being.
