Nigeria’s military veterans have protested against President Muhammadu Buhari’s regime over their Security Debarment Allowance (SDA).
Ibrahim Kana, the permanent secretary of the ministry of defence, however, brokered peace with the veterans, according to a statement in Abuja on Tuesday.
“Being the accounting officer of the ministry, I am urging you to give peace a chance and go home. We will get back to you as soon as possible and without delays,” Mr Kana appealed to the veterans.
He also dismissed the allegation that the money had been released and the authorities refused to pay the veterans and explained that the defence minister Bashir Magashi was concerned about the plight of the veterans.
The defence ministry permanent secretary also assuaged the veterans’ fear over fresh verification before payment. He said the ministry would use the existing database of veterans to administer payment.
The Chief of Defence Staff, Leo Irabor, thanked the permanent secretary for resolving the impasse and appreciated the protesters for their peaceful conduct.
The spokesperson for the retired veterans, Abiodun Durowaiye-Herbert, said, “The veterans agreed to go back home immediately and have since cleared the barricade to signal the return of peace. They also said they are now better informed than before and promised to work closely with the ministry henceforth.”
(NAN)
