Panel probes allegations of bias, ethnic cleansing against Nigerian Army
The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt. Gen Tukur Buratai, has inaugurated a 10- member panel to investigate allegations of ethnic cleansing and bias made against the Nigerian Army in Taraba State.
Inaugurating the panel at the Army Headquarters on Monday, General Buratai assured that the recent allegations which had potential to damage the reputation of the Nigerian Army will not be swept under the carpet.
Buratai said, ” The Nigerian Army has over the years conducted operations in line with its constitutional responsibility of defending the territorial integrity of Nigeria and providing aid to civil authority whenever it is called upon for such a task.
“However, the actions of the Nigerian Army in recent military operations particularly in Taraba State, have been criticized by individuals and interest groups from different sectors of the society. Some of these concerns have come from the State Government, Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) and very senior citizens from the state.
” Most recently, on March 24, 2018, a former COAS, Lt Gen TY Danjuma (rtd) speaking during the convocation ceremony of the Taraba State University, alleged that the Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN) collude with armed bandits and other criminal elements.”
“Statements of this nature could damage the reputation of the Armed Forces of Nigeria and thus cannot be ignored if the Nigerian Army is to continue to earn the trust and respect of the Nigerian populace.”
“Thus it became imperative for the Nigerian Army to set up this Panel to confirm the veracity or otherwise of these allegations.”
He said that members of the panel were carefully selected based on their proven record of integrity and meticulousness, saying that, “I have no doubt that you will do a great job.”
He said the Terms of Reference given to the members is robust and has been articulated to enable them focus on the crux of the matter and expedite their “actions towards unravelling the true situation of things.”
“I have directed AHQ DAPP and the various formations to provide you with all the necessary logistics required for the completion of your assigned tasks.”
“You are enjoined to visit all flash points and interact with various stakeholders and interest groups in Taraba State in order to come up with a comprehensive report. Let me hasten to add that the task at hand is a burning national issue, hence you are to treat this assignment with the seriousness it deserves,” he added.
Buratai then said, “by the powers conferred on me as the Chief of Army Staff, I hereby officially inaugurate the constituted panel to investigate the allegations made against the Nigerian Army in the course of operations in Taraba State.
