By Patricia Whitehead, Asaba
Delta State Governor, Senator (Dr.) Ifeanyi Okowa, yesterday tasked the Nigerian Army on improved civil-military relations and the use of non-kinetic strategies to resolve crises.
Represented by the Commissioner for Information, Mr. Charles Aniagwu, Governor Okowa stated this when he inspected the field training exercise of 63 Brigade of the Nigerian Army codenamed Operation Crocodile Smile IV.
In his address, Okowa harped on the need for men and officers of the force to be professional, methodical and restrained in dealing with the civilian population, stressing that the predisposition of security personnel should be towards de-escalation of tension.
Referring to the soldiers, Okowa said, ‘’they should be careful not to misconstrue cases of a simple misdemeanour to be violent crimes’’ adding that, ‘’the use of maximum force should be a matter of last resort, especially when dealing with individuals’’.
The Governor called on Nigerians to support the military who strive to preserve collective peace and security, even as he commended the army for making the ultimate sacrifice for others to live.
‘’It is a national calling, no doubt, but not an easy one. Nevertheless, it is therefore vitally important that as Nigerians, we always show respect for, and empathy with our fellow countrymen in uniform. They do not deserve anything less’’ he said.
Responding, the Brigade Commander, Brigadier General Usman Bello, expressed the readiness of the army to maintain peace and stability in the state throughout the yuletide.
‘’Governor Okowa has be helpful. He is a good friend to the 63 Brigade. We have to thank him for all the support he has given the brigade to ensure that we function well’’ he said.
Operation Crocodile Smile IV was commenced 8 November 2019 and is expected to be concluded on 23 December 2019 and was designed to train officers in combating security challenges in the state.
