Army Says It Is Investigating Video Alleging Brutality Of Civilians By Soldiers

The Nigerian Army says it has launched an investigation into a video circulating online, showing armed military personnels viciously manhandling civilians believed to be of the Indigenous People of Biafra, in Abia State.

The Army in a statement issued Thursday by Sagir Musa, its Deputy Director Public Relations 82 Division, says it was investigating if the ugly incident was carried out by its officials.

The division said any of its officers found guilty after the investigation, will face the full wrath of the law.

While assuring the general public of its knowledge on the video, the Army further warned that the clips may have been a planned misinformation by the IPOB to cause chaos in the state.

“Our Code of Conduct and Rules of Engagement are quite clear and any officer or soldier that infringed on any of such directive if found guilty, will face the full wrath of the military justice system,” the statement read.

“We would like to inform the public that 82 Division is also aware of the planned misinformation and propaganda arrangement by the secessionists, Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB). They intend to churn out pre-recorded video clips aimed at discrediting the Nigerian Army, causing disaffection among the citizens of this country. They will be using bogus, manipulated and photo-shopped photographs as well as video clips. The public should be wary of such mischief, scrutinize and report same to the Nigerian Army or any of security agencies.”

The division reassured the general public that it will not relent in its promise to ensure the safety of lives and properties of the people, while it conducts its Operation Python Dance.

“We do not condone any act of indiscipline in the conduct of our operations and training exercises. Any claim of rights violation would be investigated and when confirmed, appropriate disciplinary action would be taken against the erring personnel.”

The Operation Python Dance declared by the Chief of Army Staff, Lt Gen. Tukur Buratai, is intended to check secessionist activities within the region, amongst other forms of criminal activities.

Tension have been heightened in the South-east since the recent proclamation as many lives have been lost in the region.