The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Christopher Musa, has defended a recent military operation in Sokoto State, which the state government alleged resulted in the death of no fewer than 10 civilians. Speaking of the incident, General Musa clarified that the operation was a legitimate response to the activities of terrorists in the area.
“If you turn yourself into a rat, a cat will go after you,” the CDS stated, emphasizing the military’s zero-tolerance stance on harboring or aiding criminal elements. He warned citizens against providing shelter or support to terrorists, cautioning that such actions would lead to being treated as accomplices.
General Musa made the remarks during a charity visit to patients at the Defence Headquarters (DHQ) Medical Centre in Abuja, part of Christmas celebrations that coincided with his birthday. He reiterated the need to prioritize national interest over personal gains, warning that individuals or groups engaging in business with terrorists, bandits, and kidnappers pose a significant threat to national security.
“Those doing business with terrorists, bandits, and other illegal groups are directly sabotaging the federal government’s efforts to end these criminal activities and restore peace,” General Musa said. He urged such individuals to desist from illicit dealings, noting that their pursuit of wealth undermines the government’s counter-insurgency measures.
General Musa highlighted significant achievements by the military in combating insecurity throughout 2024, expressing optimism for further progress in the coming year. He also commended the efforts of the General Officer Commanding 8 Division, Major General Ibikunke Ajose, and Commander Sector 2, Operation Hadarin Daji, who reported successful operations that neutralized numerous terrorists and their commanders.
The bombing in Sokoto has sparked heated debate, with conflicting narratives from the military and the local community. While the military maintains that the operation targeted terrorists and their collaborators, community members claim innocent civilians were among the casualties. This discrepancy has raised questions about the clarity of the operation and the military’s definition of those affected.
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The situation remains tense, as stakeholders await further clarification and investigations into the incident.
