Army Refutes Allegation of Illegal Detention of Civilians, Says Investigation Ongoing Over Arrested Impostors
Illegal Detention of Impostors: Army Sets Record Straight
The Nigerian Army, 81 Division Headquarters, has refuted allegations making the rounds in some online (Not NAOSNP) news media about unlawful detention of civilians, including one Jude Eze, saying the army is not in the business of detaining anyone, but hands over any criminal arrested to the police after due investigation.
A statement signed by Division’s Public Relations Acting Deputy Director, Major Osoba Olaniyi, and made available to the National Association of Online Security News Publishers (NAOSNP), the army insisted that investigations are still ongoing with regards to Impostors arrested while carrying out their nefarious activities in army uniform, and will be handed over to the police once investigation is concluded.
“Currently, investigation into their activities is ongoing to obtain more intelligence and unravel some suspicions about their activities and networks, both within and outside Nigeria, since it is a matter that touches on breach of national security.
“The Division wishes to state that as soon as the investigation is concluded the suspect would be handed over to the appropriate security agency for further action,” the statement revealed.
The Division further reiterated its commitment to respect of the human rights of Nigerians while undertaking their duties of protecting lives and property.
“Members of the general public should be rest assured that the Division will continue to respect and protect the rights of citizens as enshrined in the constitution.
“The Division enjoins members of the public to continue to support her operations with credible information on observed illicit activities and crimes being perpetrated by persons in military uniform, to rid Lagos and Ogun States of criminal elements using military uniform as cover,” the army noted
The statement, which was titled: RE: GROUP PETITION ARMY COMMANDER OVER UNLAWFUL DETENTION OF CIVILIAN ACCUSED OF SELLING IPOB BOOTS ,CALLS FOR PROBE, read in part:
“In setting the records straight, it would be recalled that 81 Division recently arrested several impostors posing as military personnel, who were paraded before the media and subsequently handed over to the Nigeria Police for further necessary action.”
