North East elders dismiss allegations, affirm military leadership’s integrity after Kaduna incident

The North East Elders for Restoration and Development (NEERD) strongly refutes insinuations suggesting the military leadership’s complicity in the recent tragic incident in Tudun Biri, Kaduna State, describing such claims as malicious and insensitive.

In a statement issued by NEERD President Mallam Buba Tanko and Secretary Alhaji Ibrahim Bello in Abuja on Sunday, the group expressed concern over the use of ethno-religious sentiments to tarnish the reputation of the military, which has consistently made sacrifices for the nation’s peace and stability.

The incident on December 3, where a Nigerian Army drone mistakenly caused casualties in Tudun Biri, led to speculations implying an ethno-religious undertone. NEERD emphasized the need to avoid such allegations and highlighted the impeccable record of the current military leadership, particularly Chief of Defence Gen. Christopher Musa.

The group highlighted Gen. Musa’s role as Theatre Commander Operation Hadin Kai in the North-East, underscoring his commitment to restoring peace and facilitating the return of people to their livelihoods, irrespective of ethnicity or religion.

NEERD cautioned against succumbing to ethno-religious sentiments during the nation’s challenging times, urging individuals not to jeopardize national interests for personal gain. The elders commended the armed forces for their efforts, especially in the North-East, and called on residents to support ongoing military initiatives aimed at achieving lasting peace in the region and the entire country.