The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt.-Gen. Tukur Buratai, has urged troops not to be distracted or demoralised by the allegations by International Criminal Court (ICC) to investigate war crimes against Nigerian forces in the north east.
Buratai made the call in a statement by the Acting Director, Army Public Relations, Brig.-Gen. Sagir Musa, on Saturday while reacting to amnesty international statement demanding full investigation of atrocities by Nigerian forces.
ICC prosecutor, Fatou Bensouda had earlier in a statement said , that there were reasonable basis to believe that “members of the Nigerian Security Forces (NSF)” had committed acts constituting crimes against humanity and war crimes.
Buratai said there was no doubt that such statement and instigation could distract the Nigerian troops with its demoralising effects.
He said it could have negative consequences on troops morale, interest in military service by Nigerians and severe setback to all Nigeria’s internal security operations.
The COAS also enjoined troops to ignore the “wicked and unnecessary distractions”, by both ICC and AI and concentrate on the final defeat of Boko Haram/ISWAP terrorists group which is in sight.
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Musa who said the Chief of Army Staff is presently in self isolation as part of precaution against COVID-19, would soon be joining the gallant troops in the North East at the end of the mandatory isolation period to continue giving the desired leadership and support to the gallant and patriotic troops of the Nigerian Army.
He implored them that the fight to secure the country and people must continue.
He also charges the troops to work hard and be guided by the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, the Rules of Engagement, the Code of Conduct and the Standing Operating Procedures for all Nigerian Army Operati
