Rivers State Governor, Nyesom Ezenwo Wike, has urged the Chief of Army
Staff, Lt. General Ibrahim Attahiru, to make a difference and stop Army
involvement in politics.
He said such call has become imperative owing to the despicable role
played by the immediate past Chief of Army Staff who was not only
grossly partisan but encouraged other Army officers to become political
collaborators.
Governor Wike gave the charge when he received the Chief of Army Staff,
Lt. General Ibrahim Attahiru, on courtesy visit at Government House,
Port Harcourt on Tuesday.
The governor said such political involvement saw the Army attempting to
upturn the mandate of Rivers people during the last general elections.
“We know that with the kind of experience you have, and with your level
of education, the difference will be clear. Let me use this opportunity
to say there is a need for you to make a difference, to bring back the
respect Nigerians use to have for the Armed forces.
“In those days when you see a soldier you run, these days it is
difficult because soldiers have been exposed to politics. I want you to
make a difference, to say your interest is to protect Nigerians; to
fight bandits, to fight insurgency and not to carry ballot boxes.
“It was a big shame, what happened in 2019 in this State. I am sure you
must have watched it on television. I am sure you must have watched
where the 6 Division turned to INEC office with ballot papers
everywhere.”
Governor Wike also challenged the Chief of Army Staff to be more
patriotic to the country and stop the role the Army and other security
agencies play in encouraging non performance by elected political
office holders.
He said if politicians know that soldiers and police officers will not
be contracted to rig elections for them, they will be more responsive to
the electorate because their votes will count.
“Election in Nigeria is no longer determined by performance. It is
determined by you being connected to security agencies and INEC. If it
was based on performance you’ll see most politicians will change. If you
don’t perform they will vote you out. ”
Speaking further, Governor Wike acknowledged that the new Chief of Army
Staff has started off his assignment well, which has begun restoring
public confidence in the Army.
Governor Wike harped on the need for the withdrawal of Army officers
drafted as security personnel to guide politicians because it reduces
the number of officers available to protect the sovereignty of the
country.
“I believe you will show difference that you are not here for
politicians . You’re here to protect the territorial integrity of
Nigeria. From the little you have done since you came, we are beginning
to see difference, but don’t change.”
He urged him to continue on the path of professionalism, commit to
fighting cultists, insurgents and all criminality, to ensure that
Nigeria is safe.
The governor reiterated that he will never tolerate any secessionist
group that wants to use the State as base for its nefarious activities.
“All those who are talking about their independence, they can go
anywhere, but not from here. We are not part of any secession.
“We will support the Army and other security agencies to make sure they
reduce the level of crime and criminality in this State.”
The Chief of Army Staff, Lt. General Ibrahim Attahiru said he was in
the State on assessment of 6 Division of the Nigerian Army.
Lt. General Ibrahim Attahiru commended the governor for the prevailing
peace and security in Rivers State and his zero tolerance for separatist
groups
“I also thank you for your continued non tolerance approach against
separatist groups and also your contribution in promoting peaceful
coexistence among the various communities that lives in Rivers State.”