Steer clear of politicians, COAS tells soldiers

From Molly Kilete, Abuja

Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt. Gen Faruk Yahaya, has warned officers and soldiers to steer clear of politicians and resist temptations by ‘misguided elements’ to bring the image of the military to disrepute.

He also warned those fuelling crises in various parts of the country to desist from their unpatriotic acts or have themselves to blame.

Yahaya also charged commanders of various army operations to be vigilant and put in place stringent measures to maintain efficient security of arms and ammunition.

The COAS gave the charge at the closing of the Chief Of Army Staff (COAS), third quarter conference  in Abuja, saying the warning become necessary ahead of the 2023 general elections..

He said the directive on the reviewed Nigerian Army Rules of Engagement and Code of Conduct for Operation SAFE Conduct during the elections should be adhered to strictly before, during and after the elections.

“I want to enjoin all formation and unit commanders on the need to be vigilant, aware of all situation through constant monitoring and ensuring proactive solution to situations…Thus, commanders must ensure that subordinates are educated on the guidelines provided in the document…All must remain professional and apolitical in conduct all through Op Safe conduct,” he said.

The army chief commended officers and soldiers for their doggednesses, bravery and commitment to the service of the nation. He urged them to continue to protect the nations territorial integrity with the last drop of their blood.

He said with the tempo of operational activities in all the theatre across the country, insecurity would soon become a thing of the past.

“I expect that with the improved support we have in terms of logistics and other key combat enablers, we should strive to decisively and quickly defeat the adversaries in all theatres of operations.  There is no doubt that with our efforts in collaboration with sister services and other security agencies, the state of security in the country will continue to improve in the days ahead. I therefore urge all commanders to remain committed, more so that the 2023 electioneering would soon commence.

“Let me seize this opportunity to advise those fuelling crises in various parts of the Country to desist from their unpatriotic acts. I strongly advise them to retrace their steps as the Nigerian Army, within the ambit of rule of law, will continue to ensure that all peace-loving citizens of this country go about their legitimate businesses and live their lives without fear or intimidation.”