Stakeholders Collaborative Efforts Critical Panacea to Ending Sit at Home Order in South East- Army Chief

Collaborative efforts among critical stakeholders in the South East of Nigeria is critical to ending the illegitimate sit-at-home order. 

The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Taoreed Lagbaja underscored the significance of this on Wednesday 10 January 2024, while on an Operational visit to 14 Brigade Nigerian Army (NA), Goodluck Ebele Jonathan (GEJ) Barracks in Ohafia, Abia State.

The COAS in a statement issued by the Director Army Public Relations, Major General Onyema Nwachukwu further reiterated that the involvement of all stakeholders in the region known for its socio-economic activities will be restored to normalcy and economy blossom. 

He appreciated the Abia State Government for the tremendous support the Nigerian Army has been receiving in the State. He reassured the state government that under his watch the NA will continue to support them and the good people of Abia State to curb insecurity.  

The Governor of Abia State, Dr Alex Otti expressed appreciation to the Nigerian Army troops in conjunction with sister services and other security agencies for their efforts of in addressing security threats in the state.

This according to him has translated positively in the reduction of insurgency in the State and entire South Eastern region. Governor Otti was particularly pleased with the introduction of Operation CRUSH in the State, pointing out that all identified flash points have been relatively calm. 

Lieutenant General Lagbaja visited the Headquarters 14 Brigade Ohafia, where he also charged the troops to ensure that peace returns to the troubled parts of the region.

This, he stressed is a task that must be done to restore public confidence for citizens to go about their normal businesses without fear or intimidation. He pledged that the infrastructural development currently sweeping through NA formations will surely impact on the GEJ Barracks as well. 

The Army Chief further urged the troops to remain resolute in the conduct of their operational tasks and loyal to the President, Commander-in -Chief and the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. 

He directed that the troops must adhere to extant rules of engagement, respect the fundamental human rights of the citizenry and above all conduct themselves professionally in line with global best practices.

General Lagbaja equally hinted that the Federal Government has supported the NA tremendously and reassured troops that their welfare will be given the desired attention under his watch.