By Sumaila Ogbaje

An NGO, the National Youths Security and Development Initiative (NYSDI) has called on civil society, advocacy groups and NGOs to desist from dampening the morale of the fighting troops of the Nigerian military.

The Secretary of NYSDI, Mr Charles Freeman, made the call during a news conference on Friday in Abuja.

Freeman said the group was concerned about the spate of killings and wanton destruction of properties being perpetrated by criminals with no reason.

He said the group was also concerned about the role of some advocacy groups, CSOs, NGOs and even some media organisations that are indirectly promoting the activities of the terrorists and criminals.

According to him, these advocacy groups and others have chosen to downplay national security while upholding issues that affect morale of troops who are daily making sacrifices for our country.

“Recently, one advocacy group, whether intentional, we can not say, went all out to misrepresent the Chief of Defence Staff, Gen. Christopher Musa.

“Regrettably the advocacy group twisted the narrative and attempted to politicize an issue as sensitive as national security.

“For the media organisations that carried the story, we feel it was necessary to get clarification before taking it to the public,” he said.

Freeman said the issue of national security and current challenges facing the nation was too sensitive to be misrepresented, adding that such actions could deepen the crisis.

“We want to quote and agree with the Defence Headquarters that General Musa has consistently demonstrated a deep commitment to protecting all Nigerians, regardless of ethnicity, religion, or gender.

“He has worked tirelessly to ensure the safety of citizens, promote civil-military cooperation, and uphold the values of professionalism, compassion, and integrity in military operations.”

“Under the CDS, the Armed Forces of Nigeria has shown commitment and sincerity in its approach to solving the crisis.

“We are pleading with advocacy groups, CSOs, NGOs and media organisations to exercise restraint in their activities. We must not destroy what the Armed Forces are doing to restore peace across the country,” he added.

The group said the role of the CSOs, NGOs and media could either make or mar the efforts being put in by the gallant troops across the country. (NAN)