Army Replies Gov. Zulum Over Alleged Extortion By Soldiers In Borno State

Army Reacts To Extortion Allegation Against Soldiers In Borno

The Nigerian Army has voiced its readiness to investigate the allegation of extortion levelled against some soldiers by Borno State governor, Babagana Zulum.

In its response to the allegation, the military authorities pledged to carry out a thorough investigation into the allegation with a view to sanctioning those involved if found guilty.

It will be recalled Naija News earlier reported a video of Gov. Zulum angrily accusing some soldiers on the Damaturu-Maiduguri highway on Monday of extorting ₦1,000 from road users.

In its reaction, the Nigerian Army Operations Media Coordinator, Col. Aminu Iliyasu, in a statement on Tuesday as reported by the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), said “the Nigerian Army as a professional and disciplined institution viewed such allegations seriously, particularly coming from a governor.”

“Where any infractions were established against any personnel, appropriate sanctions were applied in line with extant rules and regulations as provided for in the Armed Forces Act CAP A20 Laws of the Federation of Nigeria.

“Thus, the Nigerian Army wishes to assure the good people of Borno State and indeed the nation at large that any allegations of misconduct against its troops will be duly investigated and culprits will be dealt with accordingly,” he said.

Iliyasu noted that the Nigerian Army has a tradition of conducting thorough investigations to establish such allegation and the current accusation will receive the same treatment.

“The Nigerian Army wishes to emphatically reiterate its steadfastness on the protection of lives, properties of all law abiding citizens as it is committed to wiping out insurgency in the North East and other forms of criminality across the country.

“Additionally, citizens’ continuous support and cooperation is highly appreciated.

“Any observed misconduct by troops could be reported directly through a toll – free code 193 for immediate remedy,” he said.