Kaduna reaffirmed his administration's total
commitment to the rule of law and warned that
proven acts of human rights violation by the
Armed Forces will be punished under his
leadership. Addressing officers, troops and
newly commissioned cadets at the Nigerian
Defence Academy (NDA), President Buhari
reminded them that the rule of law applied to the
Armed Forces as much as any other institution in
the country.
"I wish to remind you of the Federal Government's
commitment to overhaul the rules of engagement
and improve operational and legal mechanisms so
that disciplinary steps are taken against proven
human rights violations by the armed forces. We are
committed to a thorough investigation of recent and
any future occurrences of human rights violations by
elements of our Armed Forces. While I applaud the
integrity and sterling record of the Armed Forces as
an institution, this administration will insist on the
rule of law, and deal with any proven cases of
deviation from laws of armed conflict, including
human rights abuses. In operational conduct
Nigerians expect our Armed Forces to keep law and
order, and not to behave like bullies. Let me reiterate
this administration's commitment to due process,
merit and total observance of the rule of law as
central pillars of a prosperous and democratic
society. Rule of law as an element of good
governance applies to the Armed Forces as much as
any institution in our country. It is therefore
gratifying that all three Services have recently taken
steps to emphasize strict adherence to rules in
recruitment, promotions, procurement, project
executions and civil-military relations," the President
said at the passing out of Officer Cadets of the NDA's
62 Regular Course and Short Service Course 43.
Observing that security remains the most important
challenge in his Administration's "Change"
Programme, President Buhari said that the nation
expects exemplary conduct and professionalism
from officers and men of its Armed Forces at all
times and in all situations.
"The objectives our fight against terrorism cannot be
realized without a credible and effective military. You
must avoid any behavior that will tarnish your
honour and dignity as commissioned officers. Your
commitment and loyalty to the Armed Forces and the
nation must be total. I urge you to take your roles in
the on-going process of rebuilding our Armed Forces
very seriously," President Buhari told the newly-
commissioned officers.
Declaring that the Federal Government was pleased
with the Armed Forces' resolve to end the insurgency
facing the country once and for all, President Buhari
assured them of his Administration's determination
to ensure the speedy provision of platforms and
equipment they require to win the war against
terrorism and meet their long term needs.
Garba Shehu
SSA to the President
(Media & Publicity)
AbleMoJah® Nigeria.
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