In
recent days there were speculations in the media especially the online
media, to the effect that Operation LAFIYA DOLE has been taken over by
the Defence Headquarters and that soldiers are not happy about it. This
is not quite unfortunate and figment of imaginations of the respective
media which was aimed at distracting the military, create rancour and
disaffection among the components fighting Boko Haram terrorists.
Consequently,
it is important to reiterate that since inception of the operation
there has always been a hierarchy of command and control as indeed in
all military operations. The Armed Forces Act (AFA), Cap A20, Laws of
the Federation of Nigeria (LFN), 2004 in Section 7, clearly states the
appointment of the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) and his powers. He
therefore exercises his powers in accordance with the appropriate statue
books. He superintends over all the Services; Nigerian Army, Nigerian
Navy and the Nigeria Air Force.
Therefore, the operation in the North East is not an exception.
On
the other hand, the Chief of Army Staff (COAS) is responsible for all
land operations and will continue to exercise that role and as may be
directed by the President, Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of the
Federal Republic of Nigeria through the Honourable Minister of
Defence, the CDS or directly to the COAS as the case may be. Operation
LAFIYA DOLE is essentially Land and Air operation. The Nigerian Army has
the largest troops deployed and therefore the COAS has the
responsibility for the operational, command, control and discipline of
the Army. This the COAS will continue to exercise by himself or can
delegate through his field commanders.
The
recent unfortunate attacks by Boko Haram terrorists on communities close
to Maiduguri, despite our successes calls for concern. To this end the
Nigerian Army has already commenced investigation into the attacks. All
those found wanting will be dealt with in accordance with the Armed
Forces Act. A standing Special Court Martial in the North East has
already been established by the Nigerian Army. All cases of
indiscipline and related acts of misconduct including human rights abuse
in the operations will be tried by the this Special Court Martial.
The
public and indeed Nigerians are hereby requested to disregard rumours
and speculations on the alleged take over of the command and control of
Operation LAFIYA DOLE and continue to support the fight against
terrorism and insurgency.
You are please requested to disseminate this information to the public through your medium.
Thank you for your usual cooperation.
Colonel Sani Kukasheka Usman
Acting Director Army Public Relations
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