2023 elections: Shun politics, remain focused, protect civilians, COAS cautions troops

The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt Gen Faruk Yahaya Tuesday admonished troops of the Nigerian Army to shun politics as the 2023 general elections draw nearer. However, the COAS charged the troops to remain committed to their constitutional mandate to defend the territorial integrity of the nation and protect the citizenry.

Addressing the troops during his operational tour of 2 Brigade Area of Responsibility (AOR), in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, the army chief emphasized the role of troops during elections, saying is that of supporting the Nigeria Police, which is the lead agency in the security architecture of elections.

He charged the troops to be resolute and focused in the discharge of their duties in the conduct of ongoing Internal Security Operations across the country.

Yahaya called on the troops to vigorously protect national economic assets by checking the activities of criminals and economic saboteurs, who are hell bent on sabotaging the oil and gas sector of the nation’s economy. 

He also assured them that their administrative and operational challenges will receive due and prompt attention, adding that the welfare of personnel is paramount in his command.

The Brigade Commander Brig Gen Mohammed Inuwa, who received the COAS on arrival, also briefed him on the security situation in the general area, pointing out that  electoral activities would soon commence around the country and warned that troops must avoid being dragged into any form of politicking.  

According to the Director Army Public Relations, Brigadier General Onyema Nwachukwu,“during the operational tour, the COAS inspected ongoing projects in the new barracks under construction at Nsit Ubium Local Government Area of the State.

“He also visited 6 Battalion Headquarters at Ibagwa in Abak Local Government Area of the state, where he also interacted with officers and soldiers of the Battalion. 

“On the COAS’ entourage were the Chief of Operations (Army), Maj Gen Olufemi Akinjobi, the General Officer Commanding 6 Division Maj Gen Olufemi Oluyede, the Provost Marshal(Army), Maj Gen Robert Aiyenigba, the Chief of Military Intelligence, Maj Gen Ibrahim Salihu and the Chief of Staff to the COAS, Brig Gen Aminu Umar”.