President Muhammadu Buhari has
reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to the rule of law and warned
that proven acts of human rights violation by the armed forces will be
punished.
Addressing officers, troops and
newly-commissioned cadets at the Nigerian Defence Academy, Kaduna,
during the passing out of Officer Cadets of the 62 Regular Course and
Short Service Course 43 on Saturday, the President said the rule of law
applied to the Armed Forces as much as any other institution in the
country.
In
a statement by the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media
and Publicity, Mr. Shehu Garba, Buhari was quoted as expressing his
commitment to overhauling the rules of engagement of the military so
that disciplinary measures could be taken against proven human rights
violations by the armed forces.
Buhari said, “I wish to remind you of
the Federal Government’s commitment to overhaul the rules of engagement
and improve operational and legal mechanisms so that disciplinary steps
are taken against proven human rights violations by the armed forces.
“We are committed to a thorough
investigation of recent and any future occurrences of human rights
violations by elements of our armed forces.
“While I applaud the integrity and
sterling record of the armed forces as an institution, this
administration will insist on the rule of law and deal with any proven
cases of deviation from laws of armed conflict, including human rights
abuses.
“In operational conduct, Nigerians expect our armed forces to keep law and order, and not to behave like bullies.
“Let me reiterate this administration’s
commitment to due process, merit and total observance of the rule of law
as central pillars of a prosperous and democratic society.
“Rule of law, as an element of good
governance, applies to the armed forces as much as any institution in
our country. It is, therefore, gratifying that all three Services have
recently taken steps to emphasise strict adherence to rules in
recruitment, promotions, procurement, project execution and
civil-military relations.”
He stated that security remained the
most important challenge to his administration’s ‘Change’ programme,
adding that the nation expected exemplary conduct and professionalism
from officers and men of its armed forces at all times and in all
situations.
The President said, “The objectives of
our fight against terrorism cannot be realised without a credible and
effective military. You must avoid any behaviour that will tarnish your
honour and dignity as commissioned officers.
“Your commitment and loyalty to the
armed forces and the nation must be total. I urge you to take your roles
in the on-going process of rebuilding our armed forces very seriously.”
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