Shettima hails Army for human rights, professionalism

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By Jacob Onjewu Dickson
The Governor of Borno State, Alhaji Kashim Shettima, has commended the Nigerian Army for its professionalism and respect for human rights.
 
He gave the commendation when he received the cleared and released Boko Haram suspects in Maiduguri.
He thanked the military for the justice, equity and fairness accorded the cleared suspects which he said is an indication of professionalism and respect for human rights by the military, contrary to insinuations from different quarters accusing the military of extra judicial killings, arbitrary detention and dehumanisation of citizens.
Governor Shettima solicited the support and cooperation of the citizenry towards bringing the insurgency to an end.
Earlier, before the formal handing over of the cleared suspects, the Theatre Commander Operation LAFIYA DOLE, Major General Hassan Umaru, in his remarks expressed delight with the exercice and congratulated the released detainees.
 
According to him, the occasion will no doubt reassure Nigerians and indeed all well meaning people that no individual will be unjustly and unduly incarcerated by the military in the course of the fight against terrorism and insurgency.
 
General Hassan also used the medium to solicit for greater understanding and cooperation of all in the ongoing war against terror. He urged the released detainees to be good ambassadors and also clarify any misconception as to the military’s conduct, modus operandi and respect for human rights.
 
The General Officer Commanding 7 Division, Brigadier General Victor Ezugwu in his vote of thanks applauded the troops of the Division serving in Operation LAFIYA DOLE for the gallantry exhibited in the fight against terrorism. He also thanked the investigative team who has done a thorough job of screening and investigation of the suspects.
 
Highlight of the occasion include presentation of clothing’s and cash gifts to the released suspects by the Governor assisted by His Deputy and the Theatre Commander.
Investigation carried out revealed that 275 among the suspected detainees were found innocent and had no link whatsoever with terrorism.
 
Out of the total 275; 142 were males, 49 females, while 22 were under-aged, 50 female children, and 4 foreigners. The foreigners included 2 Nigeriens and 2 Cameroonians. However, 8 others found to have criminal cases were transferred to the Nigerian Police for further investigation.

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