The Nigerian Army has read the riot act to troops deployed for internal security operations with the police; warning them to avoid taking sides.
Troops in such operations are being charged to uphold the security of lives and properties as their paramount responsibility. The charge was made in line with the Nigerian Army Rule of Engagement for Internal Security Operations under Operation MESA.
According to a statement released by the Acting Director of Army Public Relations, Colonel SANI USMAN, the Army frowned upon observed short comings especially negligence and outright ignorance displayed by troops deployed for Operation MESA and other Internal Security Operation
The statement warned that any officer or soldier found aiding or abetting any act of arson, vandalism or unprofessional conduct, would be severely dealt with according to the extant laws.
The Army spokesman noted that once a soldier is deployed on any internal security operation, he or she becomes duty-bound to ensure the enforcement of law and order in conjunction with other security agencies.
The army hierarchy reminded troops that they are duty bound to intervene in any situation to avoid a breakdown of peace, stability or law and order of an area where they are deployed.
The statement noted that it is inexcusable for troops to stand aside and watch the security situation deteriorates, leading to loss of lives or damage to property without intervening.
It said the principle of minimum force and proportionality must be applied at all times; adding that whenever operational situation permits, every reasonable effort shall be made to control the situation through measures short of using force.
The Nigerian Army said the use of lethal force shall only be resorted to if all other means to control the situation have failed or in case of unexpected attack or suspected Improvised Explosive Device attack during which a delay could lead to loss of life or serious injury to personnel.
The statement maintained that force shall be used only when absolutely necessary to achieve an immediate aim; and the decision to open fire shall be made only on orders and under the control of on-scene commander, unless there is insufficient time to obtain such order.
It also said fire can be opened if the life of a soldier, any law abiding member of the public and or property is in grave danger.
The Army warned that indiscriminate firing is not permitted, while fire may be opened to forcefully stop any vehicle that fails to stop at a checkpoint or road block when ordered to stop for search.
It said automatic fire will only be opened as a last resort; avoid collateral damage; after fire has ceased, render medical assistance and record details of incident both in writing and using audio visual equipment whether or not casualty has been recorded.
