The Successes Achieved By Army Is Recognised By Nigerians – Army Replies Danjuma

The Nigerian Army has responded to the allegation by a former Minister of Defence, General Theophilus Danjuma that the Armed Forces of Nigeria was colluding with militias and other criminal elements and was unable to provide security for the citizens of Taraba State, during his speech at the maiden convocation of Taraba State University.

The Nigerian Army has stated that the statement made by the former Chief of Army Staff is most unfortunate at this critical time that the military has embarked upon demilitarisation of the North Central Region of the Country.

In a statement made available to Naija News by the Director of Army Press Relations, Brigadier General Texas Chukwu, the Nigerian Army is of the view that the successes so far achieved in Ex AYEM AKPATUMA have been recognised and accepted by Nigerians.

According to Texas Chukwu, the army is not really to join issues with the statesman, General Theophilus Danjuma, however, the army believe that it has done it best to ensure civil obedient and the restoration of law and order in Taraba State.

Mr. Chukwu said “The authorisation for the conduct of Ex AYEM AKPATUMA was authorised and troops deployed to curb menace of the herdsmen-farmers conflict and other criminal activities in the North Central Region amongst others.”

He added at the inception of Ex AYEM AKPATUMA, the Taraba State Government, did not cooperate with the Nigerian Army due to the Army’s stance to remain absolutely neutral in the herdsmen-farmers crisis. The Nigerian Army will continue to remain as such.

“The public is notified that Nigerian Army personnel have had to pay the supreme price for ensuring the sustenance of security in Taraba State. For instance, a gallant non-commission officer of the Nigerian Army was beheaded on 16 March 2018 in Takum Taraba State by criminal elements.

For avoidance of doubt, the Nigerian Army advises the people of Taraba State and indeed all other Nigerians to continue in their day-to-day activities and be law abiding as anyone caught with arms and ammunition will be dealt with accordance with the laws of the land. Every law-abiding citizen is assured of equal protection and security of their lives and property irrespective of his/her person.” he said.