Army deploys another Battalion  against Boko Haram

…warns against human right abuses

By OKOSUN DENNIS

The Chief of Army Staff (COAS) Lt Gen Tukur Buratai on Saturday tasked a battalion of soldiers deployed to the Lafiya Dole Operation in the north east on rotational bases to remain disciplined, loyal and committed to rout Boko Haram elements.

Addressing the officers and soldiers at the 242 Recce Battalion Ibereko Barracks, Badagry mandated them to maintain standard of training received and routine in defence.

Gen Burutai said, “No heavy or medium weapon should be left unattended. You must guide your weapon and maintain them along with the vehicles given to you. Once you do that, you will make yourself proud and the President will be proud of you too.

“Maintain the initiative until Boko Haram are routed from our territory. Yours is service to humanity. You must avoid human rights abuses. Treat civilians humanely; respect them and their culture and tradition. Treat captured terrorist humanely inline with the roles of engagement.

The army chief also warned the troops deployed to change those who have stayed in the North East not to divulge information about the on going operation saying that anyone caught sending information about the operation would be dealt with according to the law.

“We must rid Boko Haram elements from our country because they don’t want peace. Therefore, you  must defend the country at all times,” the chief added.

On their welfare, Gen Buratai reiterated that their logistics needs have been provided for  adequately as President Buhari has made necessary funds available to make them comfortable adding that the army authorities are mindful of the mental and psychological implication of keeping them away from their families.

He used the opportunity to inspect on going barracks renovation works at the Ibereko barracks, Badagry.