Reverend Timothy Daluk, the Chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) in the Mangu Local Government Area of Plateau State, has firmly declined an invitation from the Defence Headquarters (DHQ).
The invitation was extended in response to accusations made by Rev. Daluk against the military regarding recent unrest in the area. Despite the invitation to substantiate his claims, Rev. Daluk has asserted that he will not retract his accusations against the military.
Allegations and Widely Circulated Video
In a widely circulated video, Rev. Daluk accused the Nigerian military of complicity in the killing of Christians and the destruction of properties in Mangu.
The video detailed events where military personnel allegedly forced Christians to evacuate their homes, allowing militias to set residences ablaze.
The Defence Headquarters responded by accusing the clergyman of spreading falsehood and urged him to cease such actions immediately.
Unyielding Stance and Call for Investigation
Contrary to the DHQ’s request, Rev. Daluk, in a statement to journalists, emphasized his unwillingness to withdraw the allegations.
He argued that the Defence Headquarters should visit Mangu to witness the evidence firsthand, stating, “They should be the ones to come down to Mangu and see for themselves.
The evidence is there; graves are there.” Rev. Daluk maintained his position, calling for an independent investigation into the incidents he reported.
Eyewitness Account and Soldier’s Alleged Involvement
Rev. Daluk recounted a distressing incident where, according to him, a soldier shot dead a member of his community before his eyes.
He reported the incident to authorities, claiming that the soldiers responsible, whether genuine or fake, were accountable for the violence.
Despite the Defence Headquarters’ invitation, Rev. Daluk remains resolute in demanding accountability and justice for the alleged atrocities.