The Permanent Secretary Ministry of Defence Dr Ibrahim Abubakar Kana, mni has assured veterans protesting over issues on the Security Debarment Allowance their entitlements will be paid as the authorities are working round the clock to achieve this.

In a statement signed by the Special Assistant to the Minister of Defence on Media and Publicity said the Permanent Secretary who debunked the allegation that the money has been released and payment denied the Veterans by the authorities of the Ministry, also allay the fears of the protesters on recapturing, saying the existing database will be deployed in making the payment.

Dr Kana said, “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.”

He re-emphasized that the Minister of Defence, Maj. Gen. Bashir Salihi Magashi (rtd) is concerned about their plight and all hands are on deck to address their plight as soon as possible.

The Chief of Defence Staff General LEO Irabor thanked the Permanent Secretary, Dr Ibrahim Abubakar Kana, mni for brokering peace and appreciated the protesters for their peaceful conduct.

The Spokesman of the Retired Veterans, Biodun Durowde Albert attributed the misinformation and insinuations to the Communication gap between the Veterans and the Ministry to which the Permanent Secretary assured them of free flow of information on the issue.

The Veterans agreed to end the protest and return home, saying they are better informed while also pledging to work closely with the Ministry henceforth.