Protesters and agitators for the creation of a Biafra state, have been warned… by the army.
The Nigerian Army reminded Biafra secession activists on Monday, that the constitution empowers it to crush their insurrection, when and if called upon by the Federal Government.
Speaking directly to the Movement for the Actualization of the Sovereign State of Biafra, (MASSOB) and the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), the 82 Division of the Nigerian Army says its permitted by law to restore order if need be.
Army Director of Public Relations, Colonel Hamza Gambo released a statement to this effect on Monday, November 16.
”The truism of freedom of expression and peaceful assembly is not contestable particularly as it is guaranteed by section 39,1, and 40 of the constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria 1999,as amended. Instructively, this constitutional guarantee does not allow for abuse of the other person’s freedom and safety.
“It is, however, pertinent to note that same constitution in section 217 (2) mandates the Armed Forces of Nigeria to supress insurrection and act in aid of civil authority to restore order when called upon to do so. To this end, if and when the Nigerian Army is called upon to play its legally mandated role, it shall do so with utmost sense of duty and responsibility to the nation.
“In such an instance, the Nigerian Army shall act within its Rules of Engagement accordingly. It is also important to reassure all law-abiding citizens that they have nothing to fear. The Nigerian Army remains committed to protecting democratic norms while ensuring a peacful environment for scoio-economic activities to thrive.
