Chief Patrick Osagie Eholor(aka Ultimate Equal), Rights Activist and President of the One Love Foundation, has condemned the assault of two soldiers inside the popular Banex Plaza, Abuja by a crowd as depicted in a viral video.
According to the rights activist, “a recent video circulating on social media depicting a group of civilians assaulting two Nigerian Army personnel at Banex Plaza in Abuja is deeply concerning and must be addressed. While the circumstances surrounding the incident remain unclear, there is no justification for this violent attack on individuals serving our country.
“The Nigerian Army Act (NAA) stipulates that assaulting a soldier is a criminal offense punishable under the law. Section 52 of the NAA explicitly states that any person who “strikes, ill-treats, or uses force to intimidate a soldier” is guilty of an offense and liable to imprisonment.
“In the light of this incident, it is essential that we remind ourselves of the respect and dignity owed to the men and women who put their lives on the line to protect our country. Attacking members of the armed forces not only undermines their authority but also jeopardizes the security and stability of our nation.
“At the same time, it is crucial that military personnel exercise restraint in their interactions with civilians. The Nigerian Army’s Code of Conduct emphasizes the importance of maintaining professionalism, discipline, and respect for the rule of law at all times.
“Any deviation from these standards should be promptly addressed by military authorities. As we reflect on this unfortunate incident, it is also important to highlight the government’s role in promoting peace and understanding between civilians and military personnel.”
According to Chief Eholor, “the recent allocation of N90 billion for Hajj subsidies has raised questions about the government’s priorities. The funds could have bee utilized to improve the welfare of our military personnel, including better pay, equipment, and training.
“In conclusion, the assault on the Nigerian Army personnel at Banix Plaza is a clear violation of the law and should be condemned in the strongest terms. The perpetrators must be held accountable for their actions, and the Nigerian Army should take necessary measures to ensure the safety of their personnel.
“Additionally, the government must take a more proactive role in promoting peace, understanding, and cooperation between civilians and military personnel. Only through mutual respect and understanding can we create a safe and secure environment for all Nigerians.”
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