Following an Arise News exclusive interview with Major Ahmad Ibrahim retired who alleged that some unpatriotic Soldiers are collaborating with Bandits in Katsina State, the Coalition of Civil Society Organisations is now calling on President Bola Tinubu and Governor Dikko Radda to properly investigate the allegations.
Earlier the the retired Major Ibrahim who is now the Commander of the Katsina State Community Security Watch Corps in Dandume Local Government Area said the Soldiers in Dandume have prematurely released a suspect he arrested with thirty (30) rounds of AK-47 live Ammunitions and handed over to Army stationed in Dandume for investigation after the suspect confessed he was given the Ammunitions by one of the Soldiers in Dandume Local Government Area.
In a press statement, the Chairman of the Coalition of Civil Society Organisations in Katsina State Abdurrahman Abdullahi Dutsin-Ma stressed that ;
“At this time when the State is bedevilled with rising cases of kidnapping for ransom and banditry despite being in dry season, the allegations coming from a retired senior military officer is too big to be given deaf ears”.
The Coalition of Civil Society is calling on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the National Security Adviser to the President, as well Governor Dikko Radda of Katsina State to direct for a property investigation of all the issues raised by the retired Major Ibrahim:
“We therefore call upon President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, National Security Adviser Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, the Executive Governor of Katsina State Mallam Dikko Umaru Radda and National and State Houses of Assembly to initiate a comprehensive and transparent investigation into the claims presented in the video”.
The statement added that there is an urgent need for transparency and accountability within our national security framework.
“The content of this video has sparked widespread concern among citizens and underscores the need to uphold the integrity of our security institutions and to maintain public trust in the fight against insecurity in the state.
The allegations, if substantiated, point to potential lapses in security protocols and oversight. It is imperative that our leaders address these concerns promptly to prevent further erosion of confidence in our security apparatus”.
The CCSOs in Katsina State further suggested that a panel of inquiry should be constituted and its’ settings and findings be made public.
“Establish a panel comprising members from various sectors, including Civil Society, to ensure an unbiased review of the allegations.
Ensure Transparency: Keep the public informed about the progress and findings of the investigation to foster trust and credibility”.
The press statement which was signed by the Chairman and Secretary of the Coalition, reiterated that addressing these allegations with the seriousness they deserve will demonstrate a commitment to justice and the rule of law.