By Yemi Adedeji, Abuja
Masur Dan-Ali, Minister of Defence, says the statement credited to Theophilus Danjuma, former Minister of Defence, was an invitation to anarchy.
Danjuma had during the convocation of Taraba State University urged Nigerians to defend themselves against killers herdsmen on a killing prowl in Taraba State and other parts of the country.
He also accused the army of bias and colluding with killers to cause havoc across the country.
Speaking through his media aide, Tukur Gusau, Dan-Ali said: “The attention of the Ministry of Defence was drawn to a recent comment by one of the elder statesmen alleging that the military collude with bandits to kill people and therefore, call on them to rise and defend themselves outside constitutional provisions.
“This is highly uncalled for and is invitation to anarchy and should be disregarded by well meaning Nigerians.”
“The efforts of the Nigerian Armed Forces towards restoration of peace, security and order in Nigeria are evidently clear and Nigerians continue to show appreciation for changing the security environment from what it was before.
“The Nigerian armed forces is well organised and highly professional in discharging its constitutional mandate.
“Therefore, if any one has evidence of wrongdoings or dereliction of duty against our troops should please bring forward such evidence through the appropriate channels for necessary action.”
” For the avoidance of doubt, the military will not be distracted from performing its statutory duties in accordance with the rules of engagement.
“Nigerians should please continue to support the military so that all security challenges will be overcome within the shortest possible time,” he stated.
