Posted by According to General Christopher Musa, the Chief of Defence Staff, false information is to blame for the public’s incorrect impression of the military and the rise in community killings.
At a national convention/retreat on civil society/military engagement in alleviating crises in North Central, convened by the Middle Belt Journalists Forum, or MBJF, in Jos, Plateau State, the CDS made this declaration.
Musa stated that the military was impartial and urged mutual understanding between the host community and the soldiers in which they were assigned.
“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 escalation of killings in the region,” stated the CDS, who was represented by Brigadier-General Michael Agi, Chief of Staff at Operation Safe Haven, OPSH.
“We are determined to put an end to terrorism and banditry, but misinformation about our operations is eroding our resolve. This retreat coincides with that.
“Let me reassure Nigerians that the armed forces remain impartial in addressing the difficult issues confronting the country overall and the region specifically.”
In his speech, Plateau State Governor Caleb Mutfwang stated that his administration was collaborating closely with writers to encourage harmonious cohabitation among all people, regardless of affiliation.
Under the direction of Samuel Tsoho, Permanent Secretary of the State Ministry of Information and Communication, the governor revealed the existence of a committee tasked with devising a plan for repatriating internally displaced people (IDPs) to their original residence.