By Danlami Nmodu
The Nigerian Army has disclosed that the recent unfortunate attacks launched by Boko Haram on communities near Maiduguri,Borno State call for concern.Apparently suspicious, the Army Headquarters has further disclosed that it has commenced investigations into the recent Boko Haram attacks..
These disclosures were contained in a statement issued Sunday evening by Acting Director,Army Public Relations, Colonel Sani Kukasheka Usman.
According to Colonel Usman, “The recent unfortunate attacks by Boko Haram terrorists on communities close to Maiduguri, despite our successes calls for concern.
He disclosed that “To this end the Nigerian Army has already commenced investigation into the attacks. All those found wanting will be dealt with in accordance with the Armed Forces Act.
Usman further revealed that “A standing Special Court Martial in the North East has already been established by the Nigerian Army.
“All cases of indiscipline and related acts of misconduct including human rights abuse in the operations will be tried by the Special Court Martial.
Hints of Deeper Military Crisis
But Colonel Usman’s statement was even more disturbing upon deeper scrutiny as it hinted at indiscipline by troops amid some battle for control in the fight against Boko Haram
The acting army spokesman began by dispelling “speculations in the media especially the online media, to the effect that Operation LAFIYA DOLE has been taken over by the Defence Headquarters and that soldiers are not happy about it.
He said this is “quite unfortunate and figment of imaginations of the respective media which was aimed at distracting the military, create rancour and disaffection among the components fighting Boko Haram terrorists.
All of suddenly he launched into an attempt to explain the role and the sources of powers of the Chief of Defence Staff, CDS and the Chief of Army Staff, COAS respectively.He said “Consequently, it is important to reiterate that since inception of the operation there has always been a hierarchy of command and control as indeed in all military operations. The Armed Forces Act (AFA), Cap A20, Laws of the Federation of Nigeria (LFN), 2004 in Section 7, clearly states the appointment of the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) and his powers.
