The military yesterday expressed its readiness to continue to follow the rule of engagement and due process in the on-going onslaught on terror cells in Borno State.
Director of Defence Information, Brig- Gen. Chris Olukolade, said the military authorities had noted reports of civilians organising themselves to support the Special Forces, saying it would ensure that the process is not abused.
He said all the suspects apprehended through the process were being quizzed to ascertain their level of involvement in terrorist activities before taking any further action.
He said the military would also ensure that the process was not used to witch-hunt perceived enemies by some youths. Olukolade said: "The Defence Headquarters has noted with satisfaction the reports and activities of some individuals particularly youths organized into vigilante groups to join the efforts to fish out the terrorists within their communities.
"These gestures are commendable as it underscores the desired positive civilmilitary collaboration necessary for the success of the ongoing internal security operation.
"While the Defence Headquarters acknowledges this contribution especially where it is aimed at complementing the effort of security agents in restoring law and order, the need for caution in order to ensure that the process is not used to settle scores or witch-hunt perceived enemies has been conveyed to units in the field.
"The public is hereby reassured that the right of every citizen for fair hearing is not jettisoned in the name of mopping up the terrorists elements in the communities.
"Due processes have accordingly been emplaced as part of the operations, as a way of ensuring that the activities of the youths are not hijacked by those with ulterior motives or sinister intentions. All the suspects apprehended through this process are being processed to determine the level of involvement in terrorists activities."
National Mirror
I totally agree with this. Commitment is always important when it comes to issues like this. That is simply cool.