The Chief of Army Staff, Lt-.Gen. Kenneth Minimah, has said more court martial proceedings are being considered to check indiscipline among troops operating in the north-east of the country where they are fighting a six-year insurgency against Boko Haram.
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General Minimah, who was speaking on Monday in Maiduguri, the Borno State capital in commemoration of the Armed Forces Day, commended officers and men of the Nigerian Army for their gallantry in recapturing all local governments under the control of the Boko Haram Insurgents.
“One hundred and eighty two suspected Boko Haram terrorist detainees that were cleared by joint intelligence investigation committee and recommended for release were today handed over to the Borno state governor by the chief of army staff”, he said.
Tukur Gusau, a colonel, the spokesman of the 7 Division, said in a statement that this year’s celebration, is focusing on the theme: “Equipping the Nigerian Army to Enhance Operational Efficiency in Combating Threats to National Security”.
“Why are you in the army?” Minimah asked.
According to the COAS, some of the soldiers joined the army not to fight, but to own properties or secure employment, whereas, the oath of allegiance of the military commands that a soldier should fight.
He reminded soldiers of the oath they swore to which said that if possible “the soldier should lay down his life for his fatherland” adding that this was the oath they all took.
Minimah appealed to Nigerians to be patient, assuring that the fight on terrorism would soon be over.
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On removal of military check points, Minimah explained that not all military check points and road blocks were being removed, contrary to the perception of people.
