Defence Headquarters Counters Newspaper Editorial, Affirms Military’s Commitment to Discipline
Defence Headquarters Counters Newspaper Editorial, Affirms Military’s Commitment to Discipline
Defence Headquarters Counters Newspaper Editorial, Affirms Military’s Commitment to Discipline
The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has strongly refuted allegations made in a recent newspaper editorial that accused the Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN) of supporting impunity.The military described the claims as misleading and unfair, urging media practitioners to uphold journalistic ethics by verifying facts before passing judgement.
This position was contained in a press statement issued on Tuesday, March 19, by Brigadier General Tukur Gusau, Director of Defence Information.According to the statement, the editorial, published on Wednesday, March 2025, failed to fact-check its claims with the military hierarchy before concluding that the AFN was complicit in certain incidents.
The Defence Headquarters expressed concern over what it described as an attempt to “vilify or cast aspersion” on the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Christopher Gwabin Musa, and other service chiefs.The statement emphasised that such allegations misrepresent the military’s commitment to upholding the rule of law and national security.“
The claim that the military supports growing impunity is not only misleading but also unfair to the Armed Forces of Nigeria,” the statement read.“Journalistic ethics emphasise fact-checking and balanced reporting, yet this editorial fell short of these professional standards.”
The DHQ also took exception to the portrayal of alleged misconduct by military personnel as a widespread issue across the country.It clarified that the reported cases were isolated incidents in Lagos and should not be generalised as a nationwide problem.Addressing concerns about accountability, the Defence Headquarters stated that the AFN has robust internal mechanisms for investigating and disciplining erring personnel.It highlighted the presence of military police, intelligence corps, and court martial structures within all service branches, ensuring that any personnel found guilty of misconduct face appropriate disciplinary measures.“
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The Armed Forces of Nigeria maintain zero tolerance for indiscipline. Any erring personnel are subjected to thorough investigations and, where necessary, court-martial proceedings,” the statement added.The military reassured Nigerians that it remains committed to upholding the Constitution and respecting citizens’ fundamental human rights. It called on the media to exercise caution when commenting on security matters to avoid misinforming the public.”
The AFN, under the able leadership of General Christopher Musa, will continue to be focused, committed, and submissive to the tenets of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria,” the statement concluded.
This development underscores ongoing tensions between the military and sections of the media over narratives surrounding security operations in the country.
Defence Headquarters Counters Newspaper Editorial, Affirms Military’s Commitment to Discipline
