Nigerian military reads riot act to militant groups

The Nigerian military on Tuesday warned militant groups in the Niger Delta that it would not tolerate criminality in the area.

A statement by the Defence Headquarters, signed by Brig-General Rabe Abubakar, decried “the disturbing spate of how various militant groups are springing up in the Niger Delta with each of them hiding under regional agitation to commit all manners of crimes and atrocities”.

The statement read: “The Defence Headquarters wishes to state, in clear term, that no group or individual has the right to threaten or force residents in any part of Nigeria to abandon their homes in obeisance to certain group’s selfish and devilish interest.

“It is more worrisome that despite the Federal Government’s olive branch to broker peace and profer solution to the lingering Niger Delta problem, some groups are still fanning the ember of war. The military and other security agencies would remain focused, un-intimidated and will display professionalism in ensuring adequate security to lives and property.

“While the Armed Forces respect the Government’s negotiation with relevant stakeholders in the Niger Delta, the military exercise and operations in the area are not targeted at any group or meant towards making lives difficult for the inhabitants. The ongoing exercise is geared towards enhancing civil-military relationship and building the confidence of the resident on the ability of the military to protect them. The exercise also demonstrates the strength of the troops to purge the region of criminals and economic saboteurs. The Armed Forces would not tolerate any form of criminality in that region.

The statement reaffirmed the commitment of the militry and other security agencies to ensure security of lives and property, not only in the Niger Delta, but throughout the federation. It solicited the cooperation of all stakeholders, including the royal fathers, leaders and youths to achieve the objective.

“We urge public, especially those residing in the Niger Delta, to discountenance the threat and request innocent citizens and those domiciled therein to go about their legitimate businesses. the statement said.


News 24