‘We can’t be distracted’ — army dismisses claims of ‘being compromised’ in protecting Kaduna LGA

The Military Special Task Force Operation Safe Haven (OPSH) has dismissed allegations of compromise in protecting Zangon-Kataf LGA of Kaduna state.

The development comes days after Samuel Achie, president of Atyap Community Development Association (ACDA), during a press conference accused the military personnel deployed to the area of “selective intervention” by “taking side with herdsmen”.

Achie said no fewer than 518 people have been killed by suspected bandits during attacks on communities in Zangon Kataf LGA since 2017.

Reacting to the allegations, Oya James, OPSH spokesperson, in a statement on Friday said the military would not be distracted in its quest to protect lives and property in Southern Kaduna.

“Our attention has been drawn to a misleading video report that has gone viral in the social media captioned Southern Kaduna community protests killings, accuses military of compromise,” NAN quoted James as saying.

“The allegation was made through one Rev Victor Yahaya, leader of the Youth Christian Association of Nigeria Zango Kataf Local Government Area.

“The story in its entirety was created to distract the military from carrying out its duties of protecting lives and property. However, as a committed institution, the military can not be distracted from its constitutional roles.

“The OPSH is shocked that a cleric who should epitomise leadership and good example in all sense could maliciously accuse the military of compromise.

“This is most unfortunate, especially when it is glaring that the military has subdued the rate of attacks in the Southern Kaduna area of Kaduna State.

“As a noble institution, OPSH is neutral and would not compromise its constitutional roles under any guise.”

James also called on residents to assist the military with information needed to deal effectively with the security concerns in Southern Kaduna.