A coalition under the auspices of Concerned Nigeria Group (CNG) has dismissed an allegation against Col. A.U Suleiman Babanawa suggesting that he is a suspected member of a criminal gang.
CNG in a statement titled: ‘Kogi Election 2023: Do Not Criminalise the Innocent’ on Monday issued by its convener, Mr. Olayinka Dada, made available to newsmen in Abuja said Suleiman is a revered leader and foremost community leader in Kogi State.
Earlier, the public relations officer of the Department of State Security Services, Mr. Peter Afunaya stated that Suleiman was arrested alongside a suspected member of a criminal gang.
Dada, however, said it took exception to this DSS assertion.
He said, “Col. A.U Suleiman Babanawa is a renowned man who served the military meritoriously and retired without blemish.
“He served the Nigerian Military for 30 years in various capacities and retired in December 2005. He was one-time adjutant to Gen. Abdulsalam Abubakar, former Military Head of State in Lebanon on peacekeeping efforts.
“After retirement from active Military Service, he ventured into politics and community service where he also distinguished himself without bitterness to anyone.
“He contested for Governorship of Kogi State in 2007 under the platform of Movement for the Restoration of Democracy and Development.”
He said Suleiman is known for his independent, dogged, and progressive mind.
Dada said they have unfailing trust that he has never all his life been involved in any criminal activity.
“We, therefore, reject the suggestion as issued by the DSS that our leader is a suspected criminal.
“We take serious exception to this DSS assertion. He has never been and cannot now in his continuous avowed service to humanity be referred to as a suspect in any endeavour,” he added.
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