From Okwe Obi, Abuja
Twelve civil rights and pro-transparency groups under the aegis of Arewa Coalition for Security and Human Rights, has warned against abuse of military escorts attached to elites in the country.
This is even as it demanded a probe into allegation of misuse of escorts by one Okechukwu Ayogu, a businessman in Enugu State.
Its Secretary, Comrade Musa Abdullahi, in a statement yesterday, said the military should look into allegation of harassment, intimidation, abusive and illegal use of army personnel as escorts, and land grabbing.
“Recent incidents have raised concerns about the inappropriate deployment of heavily armed army personnel for private interests, particularly in the case of Mr. Okechukwu Ayogu.
“The businessman has been accused of moving with an unusually high number of military personnel, creating tension and fear in the Enugu community, he said.”
He emphasized the importance of transparency and accountability in the deployment of armed forces and advocated responsible and judicious use aligned with established protocols and national security priorities.
Abdullahi also expressed concerns that the indiscriminate use of military escorts for private purposes not only undermines the credibility of the armed forces but also raises questions about justice and fairness in the democratic society.
He underscored the belief that every citizen, regardless of status, deserves equal protection under the law.
He called for the deployment of military escorts to be based on genuine security concerns rather than personal connections or affiliations, emphasizing the need to maintain public trust and preserve the reputation of the military personnel dedicated to serving and protecting the nation.
Also, he demanded a comprehensive review of protocols governing the deployment of military escorts, including an assessment of criteria and strengthened mechanisms for accountability and oversight.
While expressing confidence in the leadership of the Chief of Army Staff, General Abiodun Lagbaja, he urged vigilance against actions that could tarnish the reputation of the armed forces.
In addition, highlighted the broader implications of improper military deployments, stating that such actions erode public trust and compromise the rule of law.