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Tag: Buratai

  • Fake news fuelling electoral violence, says Buratai

    The Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Tukur Buratai, at the weekend, blamed increasing electoral violence on fake news, and said the menace posed grave danger to the democratic process and military operations.

    Buratai spoke in Bayelsa State when he led military commanders, traditional rulers and other stakeholders to inaugurate projects at the new 16th Division Barracks, named Camp Buratai.

    He said prior to the general election, he launched Operation Safe Conduct to ensure success at the poll and established the Nigerian Army Situation Room (NASR) to manage electoral events, including stopping spread of fake news.

    Buratai, who was represented by Maj.-Gen. Adamu Saliu, commander of Training and Doctrine Command (TRADOC), noted that terrorists and subversive elements were spreading fake news using the social media to influence public sentiment, cause confusion and ignite violence.

    The COAS said: “Just before the presidential and National Assembly elections, I launched the Nigerian Army Situation Room for real time managing of events during the 2019 general election.

    “This decision was borne out of our previous unpalatable experience occasioned by electoral violence, which had now been made worse by fake news. At this point it cannot be overstated that fake news and false propaganda pose a dangerous threat to both democratic process and military operations.

    “Use of media, especially social media, to deliberately spread fake news should be a thing of concern to all of us. Rapid spread of fake news had been responsible for misinformation, thereby having an influence on public sentiment and sowing confusion among the electorate and easily ignite violence during elections as we have now.

  • Buratai hails troops for neutralising insurgents in Borno, Yobe

    THE Nigerian Army said yesterday that scores of Boko Haram terrorists have been neutralised between Borno and Yobe axis when they attempted to overrun a military base.

    Deputy Director, Army Public Relations Colonel Ado Isa said following the feat, Chief of Army staff Lt-Gen Tukur Buratai sent words of encouragement to the troops for their gallantry.

    Colonel Isa explained in a statement that some of the fleeing terrorists escaped with gunshot wounds and their gun trucks and weapons were destroyed.

    He said: “The dogged troops of 152 Battalion successfully crushed some members of the Boko Haram Terrorists (BHTs) when they attempted to infiltrate their location yesterday, March 11, 2019 at about 1900hrs around Bula – Yobe, Banki axis in Borno State.

    “The terrorists in their futile attempt came in with several gun trucks mounted with Anti-Aircraft Guns and motorcycles.

    “The troops engaged the terrorists with superior firepower and inflicted heavy casualty on the BHTs and their equipment.

    “The fierce gun battle set confusion and disorganisation in the terrorists camp, withdrawing in disarray while the troops gave them a hot pursuit.

    Read also: Buhari ‘ll bridge gap between rich and poor, says Olokesusi

    “In that process, unconfirmed number of terrorists were neutralised while several others fled with gunshot wounds.

    “A gun truck mounted with Anti-Aircraft Gun and several motorcycles belonging to the BHTs were destroyed while one gun truck mounted with anti-aircraft gun and mortar carrier were captured from the terrorists.

    “The Theatre Commander, Operation Lafiya Dole, Major-General Benson Akinroluyo, through the Acting General Officer Commanding (GOC) 7 Division Nigerian Army and Commander Sector 1, Operation Lafiya Dole, Brigadier General Abdulmalik Bulama Biu, extolled their effort and sacrifice and also conveyed the Chief of Army Staff’s (COAS) special commendation for their dogged fighting spirit and brilliance. He urged them to maintain the aggressive posture and sustain the offensive.”

  • Buratai: Army will be tough on riggers, sponsors

    THE military has warned political thugs, militia men and those arming them to disrupt polls to steer clear of the voting stations on Saturday.

    Chief of Army Staff (COAS) Lt.-Gen. Tukur Buratai, who issued the warning, also read out the rules of engagement for soldiers on electoral duties.

    He said that those working to achieve a premeditated result through rigging of the Governorship and State’s Assembly elections should perish the idea.

    The Army chief cautioned officers against taking “unlawful orders” from politicians, no matter the standing of such politicians in the society.

    “Commanders must not take any unlawful orders from any politician, no matter how highly-placed that will jeopardise the apolitical stand of the Nigerian Army”, he told top military officers.

    The military, he said, would be tough on those planning to rig and disrupt the polls.

    Besides, he said that those who killed three military personnel during the February 23 Presidential and National Assembly elections would be fished out and brought to justice.

    He said: “Let no one be in doubt that those desperate politicians and criminals that attacked our troops in the course of carrying out their legitimate duties will be tracked down and brought to justice.”

    Also yesterday the Air Force said it would on Saturday deploy air assets in flash point states.

    Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Sadique Abubakar dropped the hint at a meeting with Air Officers Commanding, Principal Staff Officers and Field Commanders at the NAF Headquarters in Abuja.

    The Air Chief said the planned deployment was in line with the directive of the Chief of Defence of State (CDS), Gen. Abayomi Olonisakin to all services to ensure peaceful elections.

    According to Lt.-Gen Buratai the military had already received intelligence reports on politicians who are planning to use the herders/farmers crises to arm their thugs and ethnic militia to perpetrate acts of violence, including bombing.

    He said: “I want to state and categorically warn that the Nigerian Army will not tolerate any acts that will undermine national security. This time around we shall be tough on those who plan to rig or disrupt the electoral process,” the COAS warned.

    Lt.-Gen Buratai spoke yesterday at the Army Headquarters in Abuja. It was at a meeting with Principal Staff Officers (PSOs), General Officers Commanding (GOCs), Operational Commanders and Directors.

    He said the meeting was principally called to review the performances of the Army during the last presidential and National Assembly elections with a view to take pro-active steps ahead of Saturday’s election.

    Lt Gen. Buratai, who regretted that an Officer and three soldiers were killed during the last elections, said that the Army would not only honour them with a befitting military burial as heroes of democracy, but would track down their killers and bring them to justice.

    The COAS said: “Once again, let me welcome you all to another expanded weekly meeting as done two weeks ago. I want to use this opportunity to congratulate you all for the professional manner in which you executed my directives for Operation SAFE CONDUCT.

    “The proactive intervention of NA in the recently concluded Presidential and National Assembly Elections contributed greatly to its successful conduct and credibility.

    “I am glad to note that both international and local observers and indeed the Nigeria print and electronic media applauded the professional role played by the Nigerian Army in ensuring that a secure and conducive environment was created for eligible voters to exercise their civic rights.

    “Unfortunately, some level of violence was still recorded leading to disruption of polls, burning of ballot boxes in some areas as well as loss of lives, including the death of an officer and three soldiers.

    “The Nigerian Army, to a larger extent, ensured that the large scale electoral malpractices and acts of thuggery aimed at disenfranchising voters as witnessed in previous elections were curbed despite the campaign of calumny orchestrated by some politicians against us.

    “Overall, I am delighted to note that the first phase of Operation SAFE CONDUCT was a huge success. Despite the bomb explosion in some parts of Maiduguri and attack in Geidam, troops of Operation LAFIYA DOLE were able to decisively defeat the attacks and secured the area for a successful conduct of elections.

    “We must therefore consolidate on this success and prepare adequately for the second phase of the election by reviewing our plans with a view to correcting observed lapses a peaceful poll that will reflect the wishes of Nigerians that have the right to determine those that govern them.

    “Recent security threat assessment and analysis of the coming elections showed that politicians have made plans to use all means available to truncate the peaceful conduct of the elections.

    “There are indications of their intent to take advantage of and to use the farmers/herders crisis, armed political thugs and ethnic militias to perpetrate acts of violence including bombings.

    “Some of them also intend to infiltrate domestic staff of political opponents, employ mercenaries to carry out acts of assassinations, use the social media for smear campaigns, hate speeches and spread fake news in a bid to disrupt the peaceful conduct of the elections. We must not allow them succeed.

    “Let me reiterate that the NA will enforce all guidelines in support of the Police to ensure the peaceful conduct of the elections in line with its constitutional roles.  I therefore want to remind us all not to rest on our oars.

    “We shall not allow those who are determined to undermine our electoral process to succeed.  These forthcoming governorship and state assembly elections are very crucial. This is an election that touches on the interest of the people at the grassroots and could likely be volatile in nature.

    “It is important to reiterate that politicians will employ and deploy all means to outwit each other to gain control of power at this level. We may recall that in the recently concluded poll, some politicians in their quest for power, armed thugs and miscreants with automatic weapons; induced and coerced Youth Corps members and INEC ad-hoc staff to perpetrate acts of electoral malpractices.

    “We must therefore continue to support the NPF and other security agencies to prevent these malpractices from occurring again. I therefore urge all commanders to work assiduously and closely with the civil authorities and all law abiding individuals as well as groups to ensure the success of the forthcoming elections.

    “During the course of the recently concluded elections, troops of the Nigerian Army were able to make arrests of persons who perpetrated acts of electoral offences. These suspects are to be immediately handover to the police for prosecution.

    “I want to state and categorically warn that the Nigerian Army will not tolerate any acts that will undermine national security. This time around we shall be tough on those who plan to rig or disrupt the electoral process.

    “I therefore want to appeal to Nigerian youths to shun any attempt by any politician to use them to perpetrate any form of violence. As we mourn the death of the young officer and soldiers killed on the course of their lawful duty during the recently held election, I want to assure their families that their death will not be in vain.

    “In line with the tradition of the Nigerian Army they will be given heroic burial as they are indeed the heroes of our democracy. I have directed that their full entitlements be paid.

    “Let no one be in doubt that those desperate politicians and criminals that attacked our troops in the course of carrying out their legitimate duties will be tracked down and brought to justice.

    “There have been reports of alleged compromises by some personnel during the elections.  We have received complaints from some stakeholders, major political parties, Governors of Bayelsa, Oyo and Ogun states of allegation of misconduct as well as unprofessional conduct by some of our personnel.

    “Unfortunately some other states have gone to the press with unsubstantiated allegation without resort to the NA leadership. Nonetheless, all these complaints are noted and will be addressed appropriately. A high-powered committee had been convened and instituted to investigate all cases of alleged misconduct by troops arising from the 2019 General Elections.

    “This is aimed at ensuring that all cases are thoroughly looked into for the purpose of dispensation of justice and to uphold Nigerian Army’s credibility, professionalism and apolitical stand.

    “Once again let me reiterate my charge to you concerning this election.”

    The COAS listed the charges as follows:

    • Commanders must be vigilant to ensure that cases of infiltrations to scare off voters are not allowed.
    • Hobnobbing and fraternisation with politicians during this election period is totally prohibited.
    • Commanders must ensure robust and extensive patrols are carried out to cover all flash points; enforce the no movement restrictions and carryout thorough searches of vehicles and persons.
    • Commanders must deal decisively with any electoral crime or action such as electoral thuggery, snatching of ballot boxes, illegal possession of electoral materials and firearms as well as other crimes that would mar the smooth conduct of the election.
    • There must be no military escort for any politician or retired military personnel until after the elections.
    • Commanders must ensure that no retired military officer is allowed to use Service weapons hitherto authorised for their personal safety during the period of the election.
    • Commanders must ensure that troops remain on ground to counter and deal ruthlessly with any post-election violence.
    • Commanders must work in conjunction with the police and other security agencies to dominate the environment to forestall any form of violence.
    • Commanders must maintain force protect and respond decisively to prevent any surprise attack on troops of Operation SAFE CONDUCTand eligible voters by armed militia groups or political thugs.
    • Commanders must act according to the Rules of Engagement and within the code of conduct as well as have respect for fundamental human rights in the performance of their assigned roles.
    • Commanders must not take any unlawful orders from any politician, no matter how highly-placed that will jeopardize the apolitical stand of the Nigerian Army.
    • Commanders must ensure troops under their command remain apolitical, neutral and should deal ruthlessly with electoral law breakers as well as avoid compromise with any politician and political party.”

  • Call your men to order, Ijaw youths urge Buratai

    Ijaw youths of Egbema in Warri North council of Delta State, have called on the Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Tukur Buratai, to “call” his men to “order” so that they will not be used to cause disruption in Saturday’s polls.

    Unconfirmed reports said the All Progressives Congress (APC) led-Federal Government plans to provide heavy security across the state to ensure free, fair, credible and violence-free elections.

    The youth, under the aegis of Egbema Youth Forum, spoke in a statement, signed by its president, Mr. Ebipade Kari in Warri, yesterday.

    The statement, which noted that the presence of military during electoral exercises was unconstitutional, said events resulting from the presidential and National Assembly elections in the Southsouth showed the desperation of APC to take over Niger Delta states.

    It lamented the deaths in the region during the last polls, adding that it would not condone a recurrence.

    Emphasising the peaceful disposition of its kingdom even in the face of underdevelopment, the group said nothing should disrupt the peace which the kingdom had “sacrificed so much” to achieve and sustain.

    The statement reads: “Our attention has been drawn to purported plans by the ruling party at the centre to take over Delta State by all means in connivance with the Army. As peace loving citizens of Nigeria, endowed with fundamental and inalienable socio-political rights, we wish to call on the Chief of Army Staff Lt. Gen. Tukur Buratai to call the Army personnel to order and not to allow the highly revered military force in Africa to be used as petty thugs by the ruling government.

    “We want to state clearly, without any iota of reservation that the involvement of the military in electoral process in  in Nigeria has gone beyond manageable dimension. This is a disservice to democratic principals and tenets as the military is statute barred from dabbling into politics. The shaky and flimsy excuses of providing security are mere gimmicks scripted to actualise the biddings of the ruling party.”

    “From the events recorded in the Southsouth on February 23, 2019, it is crystal clear that the ruling party is bent on controlling the states in the oil-rich region and has resorted to violence, gross deprivation of electoral rights and brutal force because it has no structure in the states therein.

    “We are deeply pained and are still in a state of melancholy over the death of harmless and innocent citizens in the southern part of the country, especially Rivers, Bayelsa and Delta states and as such we shall not treat with indifference if another ugly episode is re-enacted…’’

  • Polls: Army’ll be tough on riggers, thugs – Buratai

    The Chief of Army Staff, (COAS) Lt Gen. Tukur Buratai Wednesday warned those arming political thugs and militia men to achieve a premeditated end through rigging of the forthcoming gubernatorial elections across the states of the federation to desist, saying the army would be tough on them.

    According to Buratai the military had already received intelligence reports on politicians who are planning to use the herders/farmers crises to arm their thugs and ethnic militia to perpetrate acts of violence including bombing.

    “I want to state and categorically warn that the Nigerian Army will not tolerate any acts that will undermine national security. This time around we shall be tough on those who plan to rig or disrupt the electoral process,” Buratai warned.

    The Army Chief sounded the warning on Wednesday at the Army Headquarters, Abuja, at a meeting
    with Principal Staff Officers (PSOs), General Officers Commanding (GOCs), Operational Commanders and Directors.

    He said the meeting was principally to review the performances of the Army during the last presidential and National Assembly elections with a view to take pro-active steps to address lapses in the forthcoming Gubernatorial and States Assembly elections.

    Buratai, who regretted that an Officer and three soldiers were killed during the last elections, said the Army would not only honour them with a befitting military burial as heroes of democracy, but would track down their killers and ensure that justice was done.

    Buratai said: “Once again let me welcome you all to another expanded weekly meeting as done 2 weeks ago. I want to use this opportunity to congratulate you all for the professional manner in which you executed my directives for Operation SAFE CONDUCT.

    “The proactive intervention of NA in the recently concluded Presidential and National Assembly Elections contributed greatly to its successful conduct and credibility. I am glad to note that both international and local observers and indeed the Nigeria print and electronic media applauded the professional role played by the Nigerian Army in ensuring that a secure and conducive environment was created for eligible voters to exercise their civic rights.

    “Unfortunately, some level of violence was still recorded leading to disruption of polls, burning of ballot boxes in some areas as well as loss of lives, including the death of an officer and 3 soldiers. The Nigerian Army to a larger extent ensured that the large scale electoral malpractices and acts of thuggery aimed at disenfranchising voters as witnessed in previous elections were curbed despite the campaign of calumny orchestrated by some politicians against us.

    “Overall, I am delighted to note that the first phase of Operation SAFE CONDUCT was a huge success. Despite the bomb explosion in some parts of Maiduguri and attack in Geidam, troops of Operation LAFIYA DOLE were able to decisively defeat the attacks and secured the area for a successful conduct of elections.

    “We must therefore consolidate on this success and prepare adequately for the second phase of the election by reviewing our plans with a view to correcting observed lapses a peaceful poll that will reflect the wishes of Nigerians that have the right to determine those that govern them.

    “Recent security threat assessment and analysis of the coming elections showed that politicians have made plans to use all means available to truncate the peaceful conduct of the elections. There are indications of their intent to take advantage of and to use the farmers/herders crisis, armed political thugs and ethnic militias to perpetrate acts of violence including bombings.

    “Some of them also intend to infiltrate domestic staff of political opponents, employ mercenaries to carry out acts of assassinations, use the social media for smear campaigns, hate speeches and spread fake news in a bid to disrupt the peaceful conduct of the elections. We must not allow them succeed.

    “Let me reiterate that the NA will enforce all guidelines in support of the Nigeria Police Force to ensure the peaceful conduct of the elections in line with its constitutional roles. I therefore want to remind us all not to rest on our oars.

    “We shall not allow those who are determined to undermine our electoral process to succeed. These forthcoming gubernatorial and state assembly elections are very crucial. This is an election that touches on the interest of the people at the grassroots and could likely be volatile in nature.

    “It is important to reiterate that politicians will employ and deploy all means to outwit each other to gain control of power at this level. We may recall that in the recently concluded polls, some politicians in their quest for power, armed thugs and miscreants with automatic weapons; induced and coerced youth corpers and INEC ad-hoc staff to perpetrate acts of electoral malpractices.

    “We must therefore continue to support the NPF and other security agencies to prevent these malpractices from occurring again. I therefore urge all commanders to work assiduously and closely with the civil authorities and all law abiding individuals as well as groups to ensure the success of the forthcoming elections.

    “During the course of the recently concluded elections, troops of the Nigerian Army were able to make arrests of persons who perpetrated acts of electoral offences. These suspects are to be immediately handover to the police for prosecution.

    “I want to state and categorically warn that the Nigerian Army will not tolerate any acts that will undermine national security. This time around we shall be tough on those who plan to rig or disrupt the electoral process.

    “I therefore want to appeal to Nigerian youths to shun any attempt by any politician to use them to perpetrate any form of violence. As we mourn the death of the young officer and soldiers killed on the course of their lawful duty during the recently held election, I want to assure their families that their death will not be in vain.

    “In line with the tradition of the Nigerian Army they will be given heroic burial as they are indeed the heroes of our democracy. I have directed that their full entitlements be paid. Let no one be in doubt that those desperate politicians and criminals that attacked our troops in the course of carrying out their legitimate duties will be tracked down and brought to justice.

    “There have been reports of alleged compromises by some personnel during the elections. We have received complaints from some stakeholders, major political parties, Governors of Bayelsa, Oyo and Ogun States of allegation of misconduct as well as unprofessional conduct by some of our personnel.

    “Unfortunately some other states have gone to the press with unsubstantiated allegation without resort to the NA leadership. Nonetheless, all these complaints are noted and will be addressed appropriately. A high powered committee had been convened and instituted to investigate all cases of alleged misconduct by troops arising from the 2019 General Elections.

    “This is aimed at ensuring that all cases are thoroughly looked into for the purpose of dispensation of justice and to uphold Nigerian Army’s credibility, professionalism and apolitical stand.

    “Once again let me reiterate my charge to you concerning this election:

    “Commanders must be vigilant to ensure that cases of infiltrations to scare off voters are not allowed.

    “Hobnobbing and fraternization with politicians during this election period is totally prohibited.

    “Commanders must ensure robust and extensive patrols are carried out to cover all flash points; enforce the no movement restrictions and carryout thorough searches of vehicles and persons.

    “Commanders must deal decisively with any electoral crime or action such as electoral thuggery, snatching of ballot boxes, illegal possession of electoral materials and firearms as well as other crimes that would mar the smooth conduct of the election.

    “There must be no military escort for any politician or retired military personnel until after the elections.

    “Commanders must ensure that no retired military officer is allowed to use Service weapons hitherto authorised for their personal safety during the period of the election.

    “Commanders must ensure that troops remain on ground to counter and deal ruthlessly with any post-election violence.

    “Commanders must work in conjunction with the police and other security agencies to dominate the environment to forestall any form of violence.

    “Commanders must maintain force protect and respond decisively to prevent any surprise attack on troops of Operation SAFE CONDUCT and eligible voters by armed militia groups or political thugs.

    “Commanders must act according to the Rules of Engagement and within the code of conduct as well as have respect for fundamental human rights in the performance of their assigned roles.

    “Commanders must not take any unlawful orders from any politician no matter how highly placed that will jeopardize the apolitical stand of the Nigerian Army.

    “Commanders must ensure troops under their command remain apolitical, neutral and should deal ruthlessly with electoral law breakers as well as avoid compromise with any politician and political party.”

  • ‘Buratai should produce killers of photographer, PDP chief’

    The Bayelsa State government has called on the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt.-Gen. Tukur Buratai, to produce killers of the Government House Photographer, Reginald Dei, and leader of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Seidougha Taribi.

    Dei and Taribi were murdered in Oweikorogha, Southern Ijaw Local Government Area, during the last Presidential and National Assembly elections.

    Director of Strategic Communications at the Governor’s Office Nathan Egba-Ologo said the COAS had a responsibility to arrest and try the murderers.

    Egba-Ologo insisted that the deceased were killed at Taribi’s house while they waited for the election results. He urged Buratai to take a proactive step to investigate the murder.

    According to him, the earlier narrative that the deceased were killed by soldiers in army uniform would no longer stand as the Publicity Secretary of APC, Buokoribo Doifie, confirmed in reports that a member of his party led the soldiers to the residence where they were shot.

    According to him, claims that the deceased were shot because they were found with election materials were a wild allegation which should be investigated.

    He said: “The Bayelsa State government is making a passionate appeal to the Chief Army Staff, Lt.-Gen. Tukur Buratai, to investigate, identify and prosecute the soldiers who murdered a Government House photographer, Mr. Reginald Dei, and a Chieftain of the PDP, Mr. Seidougha Taribi, on February 23 in Southern Ijaw.

    “The Bayelsa State government and Bayelsans would adopt all lawful means to seek justice in this act of terror perpetrated against our citizens by a collusion of thugs and soldiers.”

  • Army’ll not disobey constituted authority – Buratai

    …Warns Politicians against incitement

     

    The Nigerian Army Wednesday said it would not disobey orders issued by constituted authority, maintaining that it would not only defend the nation’s democracy but would not tolerate incitement against constituted authority.

    The Chief of Army Staff, Lt. General Tukur Buratai who made the declaration at a meeting with General Officers Commanding, (GOCs) Principal Staff Officers (PSOs) and selected Commanders at the Army Headquarters in Abuja, asked politicians making inciting statements to immediately withdraw them.

    Buratai said: “It is unfortunate to hear persons who are aspiring to rule this country again inciting the army to disobedience. We have consistently stated our position in the political dispensation to remain neutral and apolitical.

    “However, direct and public incitement of the Nigerian Military against democracy and constituted civil authority will not be tolerated. I request such persons to withdraw this inciting statement. Let me reemphasize loud and clear, that the Nigerian Army is a professional army.

    “The foundation of military professionalism is discipline and without discipline an army cannot stand. One of our core values is loyalty to constituted authority. Loyalty must be hundred per cent. I shall leave you in no doubt as to our resolve to bequeath a professionally responsive army to Nigeria and Nigerians.

    “Should any officer or soldier have doubts as to his loyalty to the Nigerian State as presently constituted, such a person has up to 22 February 2019 to resign. There is no room for indiscipline or disobedience to lawful orders in the NA today”.

    Buratai, who said the meeting was called to review matters arising as a result of the postponement of the general elections, said the postponement has increased apprehension in the country and the international community especially on the safety of voters and electoral materials.

    The COAS said: “You are all welcome to this expanded weekly meeting which has in attendance, not only Principal Staff Officers and Directors, but also GOCs and selected field commanders. You will all recall that just 2 weeks ago, we all met here for an Operations Conference that was held to strategize on the NA’s roles during the 2019 General Elections, which was earlier planned to commence from 16 Feb 19.

    “Unfortunately, the election did not hold as planned and has been postponed to hold on 23 Feb 19 and 9 Mar 19. This shift in date has necessitated a need to review some of the decisions taken at the last conference and also to reiterate some of the directives Passed to you in light of the postponement of the elections.

    ” I wish to first remind all of you that the unity of Nigeria is not negotiable. Hence those who seek to undermine our democracy by interfering in our electoral process must be seen as enemies of Nigeria and dealt with appropriately.

    “Our role is aptly captured in the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended) and we must defend Nigeria’s territorial integrity as well as act in aid of civil authority when called upon to do so. Therefore, commanders must work with all stakeholders, interest groups and agencies to avert any act by any individual, groups or entities that seek to undermine our democratic process.

    “As expected, Nigerians have expressed general disappointment with the postponement of the elections. The postponement has also increased apprehension in the populace and the international community with regards to safety of voters and the electoral materials.

    “It is therefore vital that the Army alongside other security agencies rise up to the challenge of ensuring a peaceful outcome to this general election so as to give confidence to Nigerian citizens and to reassure the international community about our electoral process.

    Read Also: Army cautions personnel on politics

    “In light of this, I am pleased with the smooth activation of Op SAFE CONDUCT and the success of Op EGWU EKE III. In addition, the recent launching of the NA Situation Room for Elections Security Monitoring will also ensure we have real time feedback from the field.

    “As we engage in these operations, we must remember that the army remains apolitical to ensure that no negative aspersion is cast on the NA before, during or after the elections.”

    On what he expected of the nation’s Army on the rescheduled elections, Buratai said: “I want to remind all here present that the act of electoral thuggery, snatching of ballot boxes, illegal possession of elections materials and similar crimes are intended to mar an election and create deliberate avenues for post-election violence and mayhem.

    “Such actions can also become more damaging when they are widespread, leading to destruction of lives and properties. Incidences of this nature in previous elections are often planned and orchestrated by politicians and the NA has hitherto been very cautious in its approach.

    “However, this time around the Army will adopt a proactive posture that ensures that similar incidences do not even arise. Accordingly, in addition to my earlier directives to you in the last Operations Conference, I wish to lay emphasis on the following actions that all commanders are to abide by:

    “Commanders must deal decisively with any electoral crime or action that would be inimical to National Security.

    “Commanders are to ensure that they and their personnel do not hobnob with politicians at any level. In this regard, there will be no military escort for any politician and all NA personnel are to stay clear of retired military officers especially those who are now politicians until after the elections.

    “Commanders are to conduct extensive patrols within their AORs. They must ensure that all flash points within the area are dominated.

    “Commanders must in conjunction with the NPF enforce the restriction on movement within their AORs. All vehicles must be searched and suspicious persons or vehicles arrested/impounded and later hand over to the NPF.

    “Commanders must ensure they key into the Army Elections Security Monitoring Situation Room to send and receive near real-time information on events, as they occur in their AOR.

    ” I have laid emphasis on these few points to remind everyone that these are delicate times and the NA must support Nigeria’s march towards enduring democracy. In the course of the conference, I will expect every one of you to comment on your preparations for the elections as it affects your various AORs.

    “Our role in support of democracy cannot be overemphasized; hence all hands must be on deck to ensure we have a successful outing for the next elections”.

  • Buratai: A legend or not

    Is he a legend or not? In retrospect of the article written by one Mr. Charles Ogbu, which to my understanding, he did not only dispute the Legendary status of General Burati but disparage the prevailing circumstances on the ground, the time and the space the author is using to present it particularly to the school children in the form poem/folklore, he deemed improper and a sham.
    Nigeria being a Democratic State with freedom of speech, expression and association as entrenched in the constitution afforded Mr. Charles and many of ilks to state their views about the Author Dr. Abubakar Mohd Sanni.
    However, having digested Mr Charles write-up, there is a biblical injunction which says that “Only the living can praise God” and it is better to appreciate someone who has done exceedingly well for his country while alive than when in green land and not when such Icon is gone. Of a truth Buratai has performed excellently well in the Nigerian Army and Conquering the insurgency in the Nigeria land territory.
    I will like to refresh Mr. Charles Memory that insurgency did not just start up in Nigeria, before the appointment of Buratai, the Boko Haram Insurgency has conquered parts of the North-East, North-West, infiltrating Abuja, Some Military locations, Kano and Jos, even in Lagos thereby causing collateral damages in all these aforementioned locations. Since the appointment of Lt-General Buratai (COAS), we are now witnessing peace in all these locations that have been reclaimed apart from being a soft target that are being attacked by the insurgents.
    Also, it was under the auspices of COAS, that the Nigeria Army witnessed massive renovations and constructions, permit me to mention a few; Creating an overhead corridor connecting Army Head-Quarters to officers and main canteen and other adjoining departments which are annexed to the main Army Head-Quarters. Renovating and Constructions of modern facilities in military hospitals and equipping them with modern facilities and power generating sets.
    It was under COAS watch, modern constructions are being undertaken in Army training schools and establishments, renovation of military cantonments, Barracks and gymnastics for physical exercise, likewise tailoring factories in Nigeria Army division are being established. Officers and soldiers training are being done locally and internationally thereby making them professional and at the same time enhancing professionalism.
    The Niger/Delta region of this country before the accession of Buratai, was witnessing murdering, kidnapping, pipeline Vandalism and various militant groups were being formed with a very high level of rapaciousness, so much so that the unity of this country is threatened.
    Also, I’d like to digress a little by asking Mr. Charles, what was the intent of the IPOB movement if not to cause disunity in the Country Nigeria, which constitutionally, is a highly treasonous offence, ergo, I will still like to address Mr.Charles Ogbu about what the constitution says about treason. ”Any person conspiring with any person, either within or without Nigeria, to levy war against the State with the intent to cause such levying of war as would be treason if committed by a citizen of Nigeria, is guilty of treason and is liable to punishment of death”. And hence tell me, which other way are the Military supposed to go about combating War without weapons. Mr.Charles, you may be a learned fellow but when it comes to war strategies and tactics it is best to leave it to the Military who are seasoned in the act.
    Moving Forward, COAS has also launched various operations across Niger/Delta area and South-East which degraded all those recalcitrant and belligerents stratum fermenting Anarchy bellicosely in those areas and thereby destroying our economic facilities which affected our economy.
    Thank God, Agriculture is now yielding good dividends in Nigeria considering the security apparatus Buratai put in place with regards to Nigeria in Niger/ Delta and parts of South-East, the people of that area are going about their normal duties without fear of harassment and Molestations. Buratai also respected all the traditional institutions across the geopolitical zones especially where we have military establishments byvisiting them when check on military information in their domain.
    The peace and tranquility that we have enjoyed during the elections was made possible with the support of the Nigerian Army under the watch of Buratai. He placed the military on red-Alert before the election with proper deployments of troops and issued stern warnings to officers who wants to be political, such officers are advised to resign from the army, otherwise , comply with rules and regulations governing the army.

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    Never the less, it is when you thank and praise the appropriate level that the outpouring of blessing rains down as the proverbial windows of heaven open (“gbalaja”which simply means very wide open) going by the meaning of a legend which states that someone who has been superb or extraordinary. It is when you realize that the achievements of Buratai , that you can appreciate the Nigerian Army, the consequence of which can bring spontaneous performance of the Nigerian Army as this will improve their morals because the pat on the back shall be extended to the least rank in the Army by COAS.

    What the present COAS whom I will call EAGLES with vision, courage, boldness and ‘‘GENERAL MARSHAL’’ of his own generation did regarding the peace being enjoyed in Niger/Delta and the South-east likewise North-East and North-West areas affected by the insurgency apart from Zamfara and Kaduna states which are witnessing prolific murdering activities, kidnapping and likely because of mining activities; Considering the above background Buratai has performed extraordinarily well and curiously more than any COAS, since the inception of the Nigeria Army by transforming the Nigerian Army professionally, improving infrastructures and maintaining peace and security in the country through execution of many internal security operations.
    Howbeit, in a country where hooligans and political thugs are celebrated on a daily basis, I think, it will behoove us as individuals, as a community, and as a nation if we failedto recognize the present achievement of General Buratai COAS as a legend that he is, we fail to celebrate Justice Oputa, Justice Nasar, Justice Elias, FRA Williams when they were alive and we witnessed what the negligence has caused, as we are privy to the rot inherent in the judicial systems in present day. There is a cliché that says” the result of hard work is more work” which invariably points out that when you are recognized for your and celebrated hard-work the populace, the community receives the impact of more of your work.
    Also, coming from a person of Mr.Charles educational background, I believe it is suffice to say, ‘ it is advisable for Mr. Charles to stick to the lecture room on studies pertaining to his discipline as he has no iota of warfare strategies and tactics employed in keeping the peace and security of a nation together.
    Ergo, the opprobrious content of his write-up, not only shows how intemperate his choice of words are , coming from a supposedly learned person is indeed a hurricane of unchecked obduracy and I can only conclude that like many of his ilk, he can only be said to be plainly seeking Cheap attention.
    Regarding the confrontation with the EL-zakzaky group in Kaduna; Mr. Charles Ogbu, assuming you are a COAS and you are passing a Location designated cleared route and surprisingly you are ambushed by bandits, please tell me what would you do as a COAS? What will you do to become a Legend? Have you ever done anything remotely noteworthy aside from disparaging other people’s legacy? And who even informed you that the book has been authorized to become literature books for school pupils?
    Majekodunmi is a retired Col and served in the Nigerian Army.

     

  • Buratai debunks allegations of lack of equipment, others

    CHIEF of Army Staff (COAS) Lt. Gen Tukur Buratai yesterday said allegations of lack of equipment and non-payment of allowances to troops in the war fronts were ill-conceived and misleading.

    He said the allegations were part of the campaigns of calumny against the army to dampen the morale of troops.

    The Army chief urged the nation’s media to see through the psychological warfare of the insurgents and their international and local collaborators.

    Lt.-Gen Buratai spoke yesterday at the opening ceremony of Nigerian Army Conference for Editors at Nigerian Army Resource Centre, Abuja.

    He said the theme of the conference, “Enhancing military media relationship for effective fight against terrorism and insurgency in Nigeria”, was chosen to address the country’s security challenges.

    “The allegations of human rights abuses against the military by Amnesty International, allegations of lack of equipment and non-payment of allowances to troops are ill-conceived and misleading.

    “The war against terrorism should be a collective responsibility for all, and not just a war between the army and the terrorist groups. The war needs to be reported as it is, and therefore, the media need to enlighten the people to understand the true situation and support the military. The impact of the terrorists’ propaganda was one of the major challenges facing the military by discouraging and dampening morale of the troops in the frontline,” the Army chief said.

    He said the army would remain apolitical as the nation prepares for the general elections, noting that Exercise Python Dance III was launched across the country recently to ensure the maintenance of peace and security.

    Buratai appealed to the nation’s editors to support the military in the war against Boko Haram terrorists, asserting that the war should not been seen as that of the military alone.

    He said:  “I am highly delighted to speak to you, the leading media practitioners in Nigeria, who make major contributions that shape public perception on daily basis through national dailies, electronic media as well as online media.

    “There is no doubt that by your distinct position, you can stabilise or destabilise situations in any given security environment. The reasons are not far from the fact that the pen is mightier than the sword. This media conference organised by the Nigerian Army came at the right time when we are faced with challenges of reporting military operations vis-a-vis the concern to preserve our national security.

    “The effort of the military to ensure peace and security in our country is a constitutional responsibility, which requires support from all sectors to make Nigeria safe from all forms of criminalities.

    “Therefore, your roles as leading media practitioners in this fight is key in shaping public opinion by reporting what is right as at when due to avoid putting the lives of security agents in danger.”

     

  • Soldiers’ valour, sacrifice makes a nation – Buratai

    The Chief of Army Staff, Lt.-Gen. Tukur Buratai says the valour and sacrifice of soldiers makes a nation.

    In a message on Wednesday to honour the fallen heroes on the occasion of the 2019 Armed Forces Remembrance Day, Buratai said only heroes become soldiers.

    “Every man is born a hero. It takes a hero to be a soldier.

    “The Soldier Heroes live forever. Their memories never die. Their valour and sacrifice make a nation.

    “I commemorate the amazing selflessness of our fallen heroes who have paid the supreme price to ensure that our country remains indivisible,” he said.

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    Buratai saluted the courage and appreciated both retired and serving members of the Nigerian army for their commitment and loyalty.

    “To the families of our departed colleagues, our love, thoughts and prayers are always with you.

    “To the good people of Nigeria, I say thank you for your support and goodwill. May God bless our Armed Forces and the Federal Republic of Nigeria.”