2019 Election: No Escorts for Politicians, Retired Military Officers –Buratai

The Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Tukur Buratai, on Wednesday, declared matter-of-factly that there would be no military escort for any politician and all Nigerian Army personnel are to stay clear of retired military officers especially those who are now politicians until after the elections.

He also stressed that political thugs will be brutally dealt with as ordered by the Commander-in-Chief while peace-loving and loyal Nigerians will be adequately protected by the military before, during and after the elections on Saturday.

Hear Buratai: “The act of electoral thuggery, snatching of ballot boxes, illegal possession of elections materials and similar crimes are intended to mar an election and create deliberate avenues for post-election violence and mayhem. Such actions can also become more damaging when they are widespread, leading to destruction of lives and properties. Incidences of this nature in previous elections are often planned and orchestrated by politicians and the NA has hitherto been very cautious in its approach.

“However, this time around the NA will adopt a proactive posture that ensures that similar incidences do not even arise. Commanders must deal decisively with any electoral crime or action that would be inimical to National Security.

“Commanders are to ensure that they and their personnel do  not  hobnob  with  politicians at any level. In this regard, there will be no military escort for any politician and all NA personnel are to stay clear of retired military officers especially those who are now politicians until after the elections.

“Commanders are to conduct extensive patrols within their AORs. They must ensure that all flash points within the area are dominated.

“Commanders must in conjunction with the NPF enforce the restriction on movement within their AORs. All vehicles must be searched and suspicious persons or vehicles arrested/impounded and later hand over to the NPF

“It is unfortunate to hear persons who are aspiring to rule this country again inciting the army to disobedience. We have consistently stated our position in the political dispensation to remain neutral and apolitical. However, direct and public incitement of the Nigerian Military against democracy and constituted civil authority will not be tolerated. I request such persons to withdraw this inciting statement.

“Let me reemphasize loud and clear, that the Nigerian Army is a professional army. The foundation of military professionalism is discipline and without discipline an army cannot stand. One of our core values is loyalty to constituted authority. Loyalty must be hundred per cent.”