As the Nigerian military came under heavy criticisms for killing Benue militia leader, Terwase Akwaza, alias Gana, after he had repented and was in government convoy from Katsina-Ala Local to Makurdi on the amnesty programme granted by the State government, the Nigeria military authorities on Thursday, said it would not join issues with critics of its action.
Major General John Enenche, Coordinator, Defence Media Operations, said he should be excused over the issue, saying, “I will not join issues with the Benue State Governor, Samuel Ortom and other political leaders who had condemned the incident.”
A community leader said, the militia after he had been seized by the military was thrown into the military vehicle and driven away.
He said the notorious gang leader who was to participate in the amnesty programme of the Benue state government was dragged out of a car by soldiers at a checkpoint in Gbitse, near Yandev roundabout in the Gboko Local Government Area of the state.
Meanwhile, the Commander of Operation Ayem Akpatuma, Maj. Gen. Ali Gadzama, on Tuesday after news of Gana’s killing went viral said he was killed in gun duel with the troops.
Major General Enenche on Thursday at a weekly media briefing declined speaking on the issue, which is considered as an extra-judicial killing by many.
“I’m aware that the governor made a statement and one of the Senators there made a statement; it is not proper to join issues with the leaders.
“So if I comment now, you will now use it and join me as if I’m an umpire. Please, spare me that. If there was no reaction from there, I could have answered you but my political masters have spoken and so, I’m not permitted by ethical standards to comment on what my superiors have spoken out.”
