The Nigerian military authorities have rejected a N2.1 million donation that was raised by to honour the officers and soldiers who killed a top bandits leader and terrorists, Halilu Sububu.
Daily News 24 reports that last week, the operatives of the army succeeded in killing Mr Sububu also known as Halilu Buzu in a massive operation in the forests of Zamfara state.
Mr Sububu, was one of deadly terror leaders that had been declared wanted with a N5 million bounty offered by the Nigerian military for anyone that offered gave information that could lead to his capture.
However, last Thursday, the security forces killed Mr Sububu along with dozens of his fighters in a fierce battle.
To appreciate the gallantry of the officers who killed the terrorist, the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Christopher Musa, had gifted a sum of N1 million to the heroes.
But UK-based Nigerian journalist, Jaafar Jaafar and his lawyer counterpart, Dr Audu Bulama Bukarti launched a fundraiser for the soldiers to further appreciate their efforts.
On Monday however, Mr Bukarti posted on his social media accounts that the N2,183,555 raised for the soldiers had been rejected by the military authorities.
“The Nigerian Army has respectfully declined our donation intended for the brave soldiers who neutralised the bandit kingpin, Halilu Sububu.
Also read: Nigerian troops kill notorious bandit leader, Halilu Buzu
“They explained that the N1 million given to them by the CDS was a personal gesture, and the army has its own formal internal process for recognising acts of gallantry. In addition to the N1.8 million raised by our 5-man team at Fashin Baki, we have received an additional N383,555 through your generous contributions.,” Mr Bukarti posted.
The legal practitioner and activist nonetheless said the donation would be channel for humanitarian efforts in Maiduguri, which was submerged by a deadly flood that killed more than 30 people and displaced more than a million more.
“Given this development, we now plan to redirect the total amount raised (N2,183,555) to support ongoing humanitarian efforts in Maiduguri.
“Our plan is to identify a reputable organisation working in Maiduguri and hand over the funds to them. If anyone who contributed would prefer their donation not be used in this way, please contact either myself or
“@JaafarSJaafar with your receipt for a refund. We once again urge the presidency to formally and properly recognise these brave Nigerians, as doing so will inspire and motivate them, as well as others.
“We, as Nigerians, reaffirm our unwavering support and prayers for our soldiers,” he added.
