by 
Apparently piqued by the growing secessionist protests in some parts of the country, the Nigerian Army has warned in strong terms its resolve to resort to use of minimum force if called upon to do so. The army’s position followed simultaneous media parleys in Lagos and Jos, the Plateau State capital, on Monday. General Officers Commanding 81 and 3 Divisions of the Nigerian Army, Majors- General Isidore Edet and Hassan Umaru, respectively, issued these warnings while meeting with media.
In like manner, the 82 Division of the Nigerian Army also pledged its readiness to suppress insurrection in the South East and South-South geopolitical zones whenever it was called upon to do so. The Jos briefing was held at the Maxwell Kobe Cantonment, Rukuba, Plateau State, while that of Lagos was held at the 81 Division Officers Mess, Onikan. In Lagos, Gen. Edet of 81 Division, said the Nigerian Army would not stand idly by and allow some dissidents to disrupt the peace being enjoyed in the country as well as truncate the nation’s democracy.
He therefore said that the Army could be forced into using minimum force in dealing with civilians agitating specifically for the return of Biafra Republic. “It is the duty of an officer or soldier to ensure the enforcement of law and order. In conjunction with other security agencies, troops are duty bound to intervene in any situation to avoid a breakdown in peace and stability of an area where they are deployed,” Maj-Gen. Umaru said. “It is inexcusable for troops to stand aside and watch security situation deteriorate and for avoidance of doubt, the rule of engagement for internal security operations include principle of minimum force and proportionality must be applied at all times.”
Credit: DailyTimes