The Nigerian Army has begun a probe into the allegation that it has taken sides in the prevailing battle between herdsmen and farmers in some parts of the country.
The battle has led to loss of lives.
A 10-man committee was, on Monday, inaugurated by the Chief of Army Staff, Lt.-Gen. Tukur Buratai, to carry out the probe.
The allegation of military’s compromise was made by a former Chief of Army Staff, Theophilus Yakubu Danjuma, during the convocation of Taraba State University in Jalingo on March 24.
Danjuma who called on the people of the state to rise up and defend themselves against any form of attack said the Army was no longer neutral and should not be trusted with their security.
His words: “You must rise to protect yourselves from these people; if you depend on the armed forces to protect you, you will all die.
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“I ask all of you to be on the alert and defend your country, defend your state.”
Speaking during the inauguration of the committee, Buratai said the probe was necessary because of the seriousness of the allegation and the negative effect it could have on the integrity of the Army.
“Some of these concerns have come from the state government, Non-Governmental Organisations and very senior citizens from the state.
“Most recently on the 24th of March, 2018, a former Chief of Army Staff, Lt.-Gen. T.Y. Danjuma (rtd), speaking during the convocation of the Taraba State University, alleged that the Armed Forces of Nigeria, colluded with the armed bandits and other criminal element in the society.
“Statement of this nature could damage the reputation of the Armed Forces of Nigeria and thus cannot be ignored if the Nigerian Army is to continue to earn the trust of the populace.
“Thus, it became imperative for the Nigerian Army to set up this panel to confirm the veracity or otherwise of this allegation,’’ Buratai said.
He urged the committee which was given 10 days to carry out the probe to be very painstaking in view of the seriousness of the issue.
In the committee are representatives of the National Human Right Commission (NHRC) and Civil Society Organisation (CSOs).
Speaking at the occasion the head of the committee, Maj.-Gen. John Nimyel (retired) promised to do a thorough job.
Said he: “We are going to try to present to you an acceptable report for the good of the Nigerian Army and nation. This is all I can say for now.’’ Nimyel said.
