Nigerian Army lauds personnel for showcasing ethical behaviors during elections

By Ajogwu Jerry 

The Nigerian Army authorities has commended the orderly conduct of its officers and soldiers during the Presidential and National Assembly elections.

The Acting Army Spokesman, Col Sagir Musa in a statement issued on Tuesday, applauded personnel of the service for their ethical conduct during the exercise.

Col Sagir further frowned at dubious allegations in some section of the media hinting that the Nigerian Army was partisan during the process.

The spokesman reiterated the stance of the Nigerian Army which he disclosed has remained apolitical.

He recalled the incessant charge of the Chief of Army Staff (COAS),  Lt Gen Tukur Buratai, to officers and soldiers of the service to distance themselves from political activities by not hobnobbing with politicians.

He enjoined members of the public to disregard the allegations which he revealed is sponsored by mischief makers.

Read part of the statement below:

“The major allegation in the publication is that ‘there is disquiet within the top echelon of the army following an emergency meeting summoned by COAS to appeal to senior army officers  to work towards the victory of President Muhammadu Buhari for the 23 February 2019 Presidential election’.

“For the fact that there is possibility of some to believe this baseless allegation, the Nigerian Army wouldn’t have to join issues with politically interested cyber warfare blackmailers. Therefore, on the basis of this claim, the need to provide an explanation  becomes imperative.

“For the record, it was true, as was widely covered and reported by the media, that the COAS had a meeting with Principal Staff Officers, General Officers Commanding, Directors and selected field commanders on the 20th of February 2019 where he clearly directed them to adopt a proactive and decisive posture that will ensure creation of a conducive environment for the peaceful conduct of 2019 Elections.

“He ordered them and indeed all NA personnel to avoid fraternizing with politicians and decisively deal with criminal acts such as electoral thuggery, snatching of ballot boxes, illegal possession of elections materials and other crimes that are intended to mar the election and create an avenue for post election violence in Nigeria. All he said was contained in his address to the officers, was equally recorded and broadcasted by the trio of print, broadcast and social media platforms and is therefore laughable and disingenuous for one to twist his directives to – or – for mere political opportunism,”.

Col Sagir said contrary to widespread allegations, the Nigerian Army is working assiduously to ensure a transparent electoral process by providing adequate security.