The Nation Newspaper

Tag: Army chief

  • Army chief: Boko Haram fighter arrested in Lagos

    Army chief: Boko Haram fighter arrested in Lagos

    Governors, IBB, Tinubu hail Buhari, troops

    Fed Govt urges vigilance

    Nigerians were told yesterday to be more vigilant after the arrest of a Boko Haram suspect in Ikorodu, Lagos.
    Boko Haram terrorists, who fled Sambisa Forest after it was captured at the weekend, are believed to be finding their way into communities.
    Chief of Army Staff Lt.-Gen. Tukur Buratai, who broke the news of the arrest during the reopening of two Borno State major roads, which were shut in 2013 because of the insurgency, did not give further details on the arrest.
    The Federal Government called for increased vigilance among Nigerians as Boko Haram escapees seek to integrate themselves into communities far and near.
    Information and Culture Minister Lai Mohammed, in a statement yesterday, congratulated “the gallant troops of the Nigerian military for finally seizing the Sambisa Forest from the Boko Haram terrorists,” and urged Nigerians “to continue to support the troops as they clear the remnants of the terrorists who are now on the run”.
    ‘’We urge Nigerians to keep our gallant and victorious troops in their prayers, and to also imbibe the mantra of ‘if you see something, say something’ as a way of ensuring that no escaped terrorist is able to wreak havoc in their communities. It is also important to know that now that they have been dispossessed of their fortress, the Boko Haram escapees will intensify their cowardly attacks on vulnerable targets if only to maintain an illusion of terror. But there should be no panic because the worst is over.’’
    Gen. Buratai urged troops to pursue fleeing Boko Haram terrorists and intercept them. He spoke before Borno State Governor Kashim Shettima cut the tape to re-open the two major roads – Maiduguri-Gubio-Damasak and Maiduguri-Monguno-Baga.
    He told the troops: “You must maintain the momentum of the operation. We must pursue the terrorists wherever they are. We must not allow them to regroup.”
    He said in spite of the takeover of the terrorists’ last stronghold in the Sambisa forest as announced by President Muhammadu Buhari, “we have no time to waste”.
    The chief of army staff described the seven-year fight against the Boko Haram terrorists as “quite sober and touchy”, saying that a number of officers and soldiers had died in the war.
    He prayed for the repose of their souls and vowed that the army would recommit itself to the fight until “remnants’’ of the terrorists are cleared.
    Maj.-Gen. Lucky Irabor, the Theatre Commander, Operation Lafiya Dole, said the Northeast had been secured.
    He also said insurgency had brought untold hardship on the people of Borno and the entire Northeast.
    The information minister praised the military for the feat and hailed Borno State Governor Kashim Shettima for his unwavering support for the military and his administration’s determination to quickly restore normalcy in the state.
    The minister’s plan to lead reporters to join Minister of Defence Mansur Dan Ali, the Service Chiefs and Shettima at the opening of the two roads was thwarted by bad weather which prevented them from travelling to Maiduguri.
    ‘’Unfortunately, due to bad weather, our flight to Maiduguri from Abuja was cancelled after several hours of waiting at the airport. However, the Chief of Army Staff, Lt.-Gen. Tukur Buratai, accompanied by the top brass of the military, re-opened the two arterial roads. This is very significant because the two major roads, which were closed due to the activities of the terrorists in the area, are of strategic importance to the economy of the Lake Chad Region,’’ he said.
    Mohammed said overall, President Muhammadu Buhari provided the much-needed impetus for the military’s victory, and urged Nigerians to keep supporting the President in his untiring efforts to restore peace and security across the country and also revamp the economy.

  • Yoruba youths condemn attack on Army chief

    THE National Committee of Yoruba Youths (NCYY) has condemned what it called the continuous media attack and campaign of calumny on the Army and its leadership, especially the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt.-Gen. Tukur Burtai.

    The youths described the masterminds as saboteurs.

    The group, in a statement by its President Comrade Oladimeji Odeyemi and Assistant Registrar, Olufemi Akindele, said these campaigns against the Army at this critical moment, are calculated attempts to derail the war against terrorism, while also seeking to tarnish the Gen. Buratai’s image.

    The statement reads: “These statements and allegations are either concocted, unsubstantiated, pure conjectures or outright falsehood. In this latest instance, may we reference the call on Code of Conduct Bureau (CCB) to probe the Chief of Army Staff over his ssset declaration by these self-styled Civil Society Network against Corruption (CSNAC).

    “This shows that the group is simply acting out a script to discredit the Nigerian Army and its leadership.

     

  • Army chief drives hygiene in Aba

    Army chief drives hygiene in Aba

    The Commanding Officer, 144 Battalion Lt. Col. Umar Kasim Sidi has urged residents of Aba, the commercial nerve of Abia State, and its environs to imbibe the culture of cleanliness and healthy living in their homes, offices and business premises.

    Sidi stated this in an interview with our correspondent at the end of a sanitation exercise which covered Milverton, Asa, Pound, Azikiwe roads and other places in the commercial city.

    The army chief stressed the importance of living and doing business in a hygienic and clean environment, adding that people can reduce the frequency of their visit to hospitals if they keep their environments clean at all times.

    The community service was part of activities marking this year’s Army Day celebrations.

    Col. Sidi said, “You see, there is this apathy that Abians, especially Aba residents, have about soldiers. So, we try as much as possible to do things that will make them have confidence in us especially in partnering against crime. Some of the things that we choose to do are to bring about confidence in the civil populace to enable them come close to the military and see that we are their friends and brothers. People should not be scared of the army.

    “We are part of the society and community where we operate. In the past, we did medical outreach and this time we decided to embark on this exercise to help educate people and to also create awareness on the importance of people living and doing business in a clean, hygienic environment. It will save people from taking ill frequently and as such enable them use the money that they would use to treat malaria, typhoid and others to solve other issues.

    “But the essence of the exercise is part of contribution to the business community which is in line with the activities to mark this year’s army celebration. I don’t have the money for now to hold medical outreaches like we did in the past, but as soon I have money from the high command, we will do medical outreach.”

    During the exercise some shop owners along Park Road joined in  but it was a different scenario at Milverton as transporters were busy loading passengers at their various loading bays while others watched the soldiers as they perform the community service.

    Some said they were astonished seeing soldiers cleaning up the community, describing it as the first of its kind in the city.

    Others made the point that such exercise will help to correct the impression people have about soldiers.

     

  • Suspected terrorists ambush Army chief

    •One killed, two injured

    Acting General Officer Commanding (GOC) 7 Division Brig.-Gen. Victor Ezugwu’s leading convoy was about 8:30am yesterday ambushed by suspected Boko Haram terrorists en route Bama.

    Although one soldier was killed and two injured, the ambush was cleared and many suspected terrorists killed.

    Vehicles and weapons were recovered from them. They included a Toyota Hilux, two AK-47 and ammunition.

    Gen. Ezugwu continued his operational visit to Bama. The deceased and the injured were taken to Maiduguri.

    The Chief of Army Staff, Lt.-Gen. Tukur Yusuf Buratai, has spoken with the GOC.

     

  • Army chief: how my convoy was attacked by Shi’ites

    Army chief: how my convoy was attacked by Shi’ites

    The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Gen. Tukur Buratai, spoke for the first time yesterday on the December 12 bloody encounter between his men and members of the Islamic Movement in Nigeria (IMN), otherwise called the Shi’ite sect.

    He claimed the Army acted within the law.

    Buratai, who explained how his convoy was allegedly held hostage by members of the sect, said his convoy was blocked in Zaria.

    He added that his officers acted within the rules of engagement.

    The COAS spoke in Abuja at the first sitting of the investigative panel set up by the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) to investigate the clash and recommend to the Federal Government how to prevent a recurrence.

    He said: “The circumstances leading to the incident of December 12 have been articulated by the officers involved. I was in the convoy. It was my convoy, the convoy of the Chief of Army Staff. I left Dutse that morning, hoping to arrive Zaria in time, to attend the passing out parade of the 73 regular recruits. But the convoy was blocked when we entered Zaria.

    “What transpired has been documented by the officers with me. They have also made their statements. They are here to give full account of what transpired. We are here because we respect human rights.

    “We are here because we know the sanctity of human life, which we have sworn to protect. One of our constitutional roles is to defend the territorial integrity of Nigeria, which also includes the totality of the protection of human rights and indeed, the property of every Nigerian. We have laid down our lives as army officers and soldiers over the years in the course of performing our constitutional roles.

    “There is no way we will pick our weapons and deliberatively violate the rights of the people, which we have been paid to defend and protect. This is quite fundamental. We have constitutional responsibility. Drawn from that constitutional responsibility, we also have our rules and regulations. And drawn from that we have a duty to perform in restoring peace and order where such peace and order are being disturbed. So, we followed our rules of engagement, which are derived from the laws.

    “The Army is a very respectable organisation. We are alive to our responsibilities. In doing so, we will not tolerate a situation where, individuals, in the name of human rights, continue to violate the rights of others and then turn back and accuse highly responsible organisations, such as the Army of human rights abuse.

    “I believe those organisations crying against what the military has been doing are not being sincere. They can be termed agents of anarchy. They don’t want law and order to prevail in the society.”

    Buratai assured the panel of his men’s cooperation, saying they would attend when requested and provide information to assist the panel in unearthing the cause of the clash.

    NHRC’s Executive Secretary Prof. Bem Angwe said they received 158 memoranda in relation to the clash and how to prevent a recurrence, from 13 states, while they got 156 memos from members of the sect and two from the public.

    He said the submission made by the COAS did not form part of the evidence of the Army because the panel’s investigation would be conducted in secret, assuring that the panel would be fair to all.

    After the opening event, the panel, headed by Tony Ojukwu, began sitting outside public view. It will sit till January 22, following which its members will visit the venue of the incident, hospitals, where the dead were taken and detention camps where the sect members are being kept.

     

  • Military to remain submissive to civil authority, says Army chief

    Military to remain submissive to civil authority, says Army chief

    CHIEF of Army Staff (COAS) Lt.-Gen. Tukur Yusufu Buratai has reiterated that the military will continue to be submissive to civil authority, ensure observance of human rights and promote the rule of law.

    Burutai gave this commitment yesterday  while addressing a workshop on “Human Rights in Times of Conflict” organised by the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) at the 7 Division, Maimalari Barracks, Baga Road, Maiduguri, the Borno State capital.

    The COAS also declared that the Nigerian Army of today  was no longer a safe haven for violators of  human rights, stressingý that since he assumed office, investigations have always been conducted on any allegation or petition against any member of the force.

    He pointed out that human rights of civilians and those involved in the hostilities in ongoing counter-insurgency operation, tagged: “Operation Lafiya Dole” against Boko Haram,  were being respected.

    He added that the Red Cross and Red Crescent (ICRC) were on hand to train any of the Nigerian Army contingents to be  inducted into peacekeeping operations.

    He said the Army has also been sending its officers on course at home and abroad yearly to update them on the issue of human rights.

    Former Attorney General of the Federation and former Minister of Defence Prince Adetokunbo Kayode (SAN), in a keynote address, said even if Boko Haram has no respect for human rights, the Nigerian state and its agents must comply with the principles of international humanitarian law and the Geneva Conventions.

    Kayode, therefore, emphasised the need for  intelligence, dedicated and specialised training and moderation  to help avoid mass casualties that might be termed genocide or war crimes or human rights violations.

    To avoid criminal sanctions, he stressed that it was better and mandatory to respect human rights.

    The former minister emphasised the need to review the operations of the civilian JTF in the fight against Boko Haram so that they did not become another monster on the country in future.

    He said this would require demonstrating that the state has sufficient capacity to restore law and order on its own.

    NBA President  Augustine Alegeh (SAN) described the issue of human rights abuse as very sensitive and one that should be adequately handled.

    He hailed the President Muhammadu Buhari administration for its commitment to uphold and promote the observance of fundamental human rights.

    He stressed that the NBA would continue to stand firm in advocating for observance of the rule of law in the country.

    Borno State Governor Kashim Shetima, who was represented by his Attorney General, Kashim Lawani, said his administration has concluded plans to set up a law reform commission next year to addressing modern trends in the protection of human rights.

    Shetima added that his government has already established the Department of Citizens’ Rights in the Ministry of Justice to strengthen the office of the Attorney General to handle cases of abuses of human rights.

     

  • Army Chief hails governor’s security initiative

    Army Chief hails governor’s security initiative

    The Chief of Army Staff, Lt.-Gen. Tukur Yusuf Buratai, has hailed Benue State Governor Samuel Ortom for taking security initiative that stabilised the state.

    Gen. Buratai spoke yesterday in Makurdi, the state capital, whn he visited the governor at the Benue People’s House.

    The Army Chief noted that Ortom’s efforts had enhanced peace in Benue and neighbouring states.

    He said he was touring military formations in the state to ascertain the facilities and conditions of the soldiers.

    Gen. Buratai urged the residents to be vigilant and report suspicious movements to security agencies.

    The Army Chief added that with the routing of Boko Haram in the Northeast, the terrorists had been forced to relocate to other areas.

    He expressed appreciation on the harmonious relationship between civilians and the military in Benue State, adding that insecurity challenges in the state would be surmounted.

    Ortom praised the Army for securing life and property in the state.

    The governor called for compensation for victims of the recent military attacks in the North Bank area of Makurdi as well as sanctions against those found culpable.

    He paid tributes to officers and men of the Armed Forces who had paid the supreme sacrifice for the nation.

    Ortom presented a traditional attire to the Army Chief.

  • Governor, Army chief disagree on Boko Haram’s territorial control  

    Governor, Army chief disagree on Boko Haram’s territorial control  

    •Borno governor meets with Imam

    As Boko Haram holding any part of Nigeria’s territory? Yes, says Borno State Governor Kashim Shettima, who claims the sect is occupying two local governments in his state.

    But the  Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen Tukur Buratai, disagrees, saying the military has routed the insurgents from every inch of the country’s land.

    The governor was addressing a visiting Federal Government delegation led by Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF) Mr. Babachir David Lawal.

    Lt. Gen. Buratai spoke with reporters in Jos, the Plateau State capital.

    Shettima said: “They(Boko Haram) are at present controlling two local governments in Borno State; Abadam and Mobbar and they are partially in Marte.”

    He added:  ”At some point, Boko Haram overran 20 out of our 27 local government areas in Borno State. They overran four local government areas in Adamawa and two in Yobe.”

    Lt. Gen Buratai, who spoke with reporters after addressing troops at the Headquarters of 3 Division, the Marxwel Khobe Cantonment, said: “No Boko Haram is holding any territory in Nigeria at the momment, I have not heard any Boko Haram member or leader making such claim, they are no more in control.

    “We are more determined and we have more professional soldiers on the ground, we have been trained and equipped and ready to face the challenge, if any, posed by Boko Haram”.

    On the December deadline given the military by President Muhammadu Buhari to stamp out Boko Haram, the army boss said: “I can confidently say we are on course, we are mindful of our target, and we know we have two months to achieve that target. We don’t have doubt in our minds, we will achieve our target by December 31.”

    The army boss told the troops said he was in Jos on a familiarisation visit and to acquaint the troops with his vision to reposition the Army following his appointment aa service chief

    The troops bombarded the army boss with  complaints mostly on welfare. He promised to address them.

    Lt. Gen. Buratai was with the GOC,3 Division, Maj. Gen. Hassan Umaru and others.

    Governor Shettima yesterday alongside Heads of the Army, Police and Department of State Service and the Shehu of Borno, ‎Abubakar Ibn Umar Garbai Elkanemi met with Imams of mosques in Maiduguri, Jere,  district heads (Aja) and ward heads (Lawans) to discuss security matters aimed at developing fresh strategies to prevent recent tricks deployed by Boko Haram insurgents who attack worshippers at predawn prayers at mosques in Maiduguri.

    The General Officer Commanding the 7th Division of the Army in Maiduguri, the Police Commissioner and the Director of the DSS attended.

    Governor Shettima told them that similar meetings would be held by the emirs of Biu and Shani with imams in local government areas not yet under attack so that worshippers would not be taken unawares. Shettima said while the Imams lead worshippers during congregational prayers and also head management of various mosques, ward heads are required to ensure that worshippers in every mosque across the over 30 wards in Maiduguri, Jere and surrounding areas adhere strictly to the resolutions reached at the meeting to enhance community policing.

     

  • Boko Haram: Army chief decries troops’ attitude in Geidam

    Boko Haram: Army chief decries troops’ attitude in Geidam

    • Says deadline to end insurgency achievable

    The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt. Gen. Tukur Buratai, has condemned the attitude of troops deployed to Geidam in the fight against terrorist group, Boko Haram

    He stated this in Lagos at the weekend during his maiden tour of units and commands under the 81 Division of the Army.

    Referring to the poor performance of the troops, Buratai emphasised the need for serious review of the attitude of the troops towards the ongoing war.

    He noted that despite having the necessary weapons and equipment that will enable them protect themselves, civilians and properties, the troops failed to attack the insurgents.

    He said: “About two or three days ago, I was in Geidam and the attitude of our troops calls for a serious review, because they have the equipment, weapons, everything they require to protect themselves and indeed citizens that are there, the whole community and villages around. But they just went and sat down without adopting the proper battle procedures.

    “I have given them a very strong warning; and some of you may find yourselves around that area. If you go there, you must behave very professionally. You must apply all the battle principles that you have been taught, deploy the weapons and equipment properly.”

    While fielding questions from reporters after addressing his soldiers, Buratai said he went to Geidam to see things for himself, while assuring that the loopholes identified are being addressed.

    “Immediately after my visit, the following day (Friday) they (terrorists) attempted to move into Geidam, but the soldiers stood up and conquered that attack. They pursued them and the terrorists have been on the run.

    “So, that issue has been addressed and we want to maintain that capability to ensure we repeal and equally pursue them to wherever they go to,” he assured.

    Buratai also warned army personnel to remain apolitical, stressing that their moves were being monitored and anyone found romancing politicians will be dealt with accordingly.

    The army chief also insisted that the December deadline given by President Muhammadu Buhari for the military to end Boko Haram was achievable.

    He noted, “Fighting insurgency requires a lot of resources and initiatives. The renewed commitment of the government of President Muhammadu Buhari, increased equipment that we have been providing to the troops, increased troops with the deployment of Special Forces in key and critical areas have contributed in motivating the troops.

    “We are addressing their welfare needs as at when due, so all these contributed and it is changing the tide against the terrorists. We will definitely meet the target.”

  • Army chief visits Ondo, Ekiti governors

    Army chief visits Ondo, Ekiti governors

    The Commander, 32 Artillery Brigade, Brig.-Gen. Kuta  A.Y. Isiyaku, has visited Governors Olusegun Mimiko of Ondo State, Ayo Fayose of Ekiti State, the Deji of Akure, Oba Aladetoyinbo Aladelusi   and heads of para-military in Ondo and Ekiti states. He visited them after assuming duty at the 32 Artillery Brigade, Owena Military Cantonment, Akure.

    The Army chief hailed Governor Mimiko for supporting security agencies in the struggle to combat crimes.

    He promised, with the support of his officers and men, to sustain the fight against insecurity.

    Gen. Isiyaku praised the governor’s efforts at ensuring the collaboration of security agents and urged the public to inform them of suspected actions and persons that could threaten security.

    He enjoined the indigenes to be law-abiding, assuring them of the security of life and property.

    Dr. Mimiko advised the officers and men to be disciplined. He promised to support the brigade and hailed the officers and men for ensuring peace.

    In attendance were the Secretary to the State Government, Dr. Aderotimi Adelola, the Chief of Staff, Dr. Kola Ademujimi, the Secretary, Cabinet, Mr. Gbenga Elewuju and the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Mr. Awogbami.