Nigerian Army Condemns Attack on Troops and Patrol Vehicles During Protests in Nasarawa State

The Nigerian Army has issued a strong condemnation of the recent unprovoked attack on troops and patrol vehicles during a protest along the Lafia-Makurdi Road in Nasarawa State. The protest, triggered by the outcome of the Court of Appeal’s ruling on the gubernatorial election in the state, saw demonstrators blocking the major highway, causing significant traffic disruptions and attacking troops’ patrol vehicles. The Army expresses its utmost concern and disappointment at the actions of the protesters, emphasizing that the troops were on legitimate duty to maintain law and order.

Despite allegations from the protesters that the troops’ convoy had rammed into them, the Nigerian Army asserts that available video footage and visual images of the protest confirm that troops conducted crowd dispersal professionally, prioritizing the safety of citizens and protecting public infrastructure. The Army underscores its recognition and respect for citizens’ rights to express grievances through peaceful protests but emphasizes the need for such protests to adhere to the law and ensure the safety of all parties involved.

Upholding the Principles of Peaceful Protest

The Nigerian Army underscores the importance of conducting protests within the confines of the law to ensure the safety and security of all citizens. While recognizing citizens’ right to peaceful expression, the Army emphasizes that resorting to violence, destruction of public property, and assault on security personnel is unacceptable and contrary to the principles of peaceful protest. The deployment of troops was intended to maintain law and order, safeguard the safety of all citizens, including protesters, and protect public infrastructure.

Troops operated under strict rules of engagement with the primary objective of preventing the escalation of violence and maintaining peace. The Army laments the protesters’ actions of pelting stones at troops and attacking patrol vehicles, highlighting that such actions not only endangered the lives of personnel but also undermined the peaceful nature of the protest. The call to exercise restraint and engage in peaceful and constructive dialogue is extended to all individuals and groups involved in protests.

Nigerian Army’s Commitment to Apolitical Stance

The Nigerian Army reiterates its commitment to the protection and safety of all citizens, emphasizing its apolitical stance. Troops were deployed to collaborate with other security agencies to ensure the safety and security of the people of Nasarawa State and the nation as a whole. The Army vows not to tolerate any form of violence and calls on community leaders, religious leaders, and other stakeholders to play their part in promoting peace and harmony in their communities.

Assuring the public that the Army remains dedicated to upholding law and order, the statement emphasizes the importance of collaboration between security agencies and the public to foster a secure environment. The call for media and public caution in reporting and disseminating information is emphasized, urging accuracy and fairness in the interest of building a peaceful and prosperous Nigeria.

Plea for Constructive Dialogue: Media Caution and Accuracy in Reporting

In a plea to protesters, the Nigerian Army urges individuals and groups to exercise restraint and engage in peaceful and constructive dialogue. Recognizing the significance of peaceful expression of grievances, the Army emphasizes that violence only exacerbates the situation and impedes progress toward resolving issues. The call for peaceful engagement is extended to community and religious leaders, emphasizing their role in promoting peace and harmony.

The Army acknowledges the importance of collective efforts in building a peaceful and prosperous Nigeria, and it encourages stakeholders to work together toward achieving this common goal. The statement underscores the belief that resolving grievances through dialogue and understanding is key to building a society that values peace and cooperation.

Collaboration with Other Security Agencies and Media Caution

The Nigerian Army emphasizes its commitment to working closely with other security agencies to ensure the safety and security of the people. The statement calls for collaboration among security forces to effectively address challenges and maintain a secure environment. Additionally, the Army urges the media and the public to exercise caution in reporting and disseminating information, emphasizing the need for accuracy and fairness.

Recognizing the influential role of the media in shaping public opinion, the statement highlights the importance of responsible reporting to avoid misinformation and the escalation of tensions. The call for collaboration extends to all stakeholders, emphasizing the shared responsibility of creating a peaceful and harmonious society.