The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt-General Kenneth Minimah has confirmed speculation that some soldiers within the rank and file of the military involved in the war against Boko Haram terrorists are displaying acts of cowardice, indiscipline and desertion of duty.
According to him, the action of these constitute the greatest danger in the ongoing fight against terrorism.
A recent report by the United States also indicted some soldiers in the troubled states for cowardice.
Minimah spoke during the just concluded COAS 3rd Quarter Conference 2014″ in Abuja, which had in attendance General Officers Commanding (GOCs) and other Operational Commanders.
Minimah frowned at “the rising acts of indiscipline and unprofessional conduct by troops”, this was made known on twitter as confirmed by the Director, Defence Information, Major Gen Chris Olukolade.
Minimah recalled the attempted mutiny by troops in Maiduguri, Borno State, against the then GOC 7 Division, Maj.Gen Ahmadu Mohammed.
He blamed this on the fact that most people, who joined the military in recent times, do so out of the need for employment and not passion for military service.
“Most people want jobs, even if it means joining the Army. When the reality of military service comes, he drops his rifle and runs away. As a professional army, the conduct of our troops must be above board at all times.”
Minimah subsequently directed all unit and operational commanders to put measures in place to check acts of indiscipline and misconduct by personnel under their commands.
He assured Nigerians of professional and disciplined Army, while pledging their total loyalty to the constitution and to the President, who is the Commander-in-Chief of Nigeria’s armed forces.
Definite, it will not be easy, but I am of a high optimistic that with a right state of mind, Nigeria soldiers when tune to an only channel were victory is known, they shall conquer! Togetherness and one state of mind, coated with love for their country, the insurgent would not comprehend their defeat to Nigeria soldiers! I feel greatly for my beloved country, but is not time to be sorrowful, sympathetic nor weak, it is time to rise strong and put off the fire on the thatch roof. All hands must be on deck!! It is not only the responsility of the few( army), but to all able Nigerian who feels they can and patriotic enough to protect her territory. Sacrifice is what is needed, if the chibok girls could pay it ! What then are we doing at home? Great men has fallen gallantly, we owe them pride if a victory is achieved!! Long live Nigeria army, long live federal Republic of Nigeria!!