President Muhammadu Buhari yesterday reaffirmed his administration’s total commitment to the rule of law and warned that proven acts of human rights violations by the armed forces will be punished under his watch.
The president stated this while addressing officers, troops and newly commissioned cadets at a colourful passing out parade held inside the Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA), Kaduna, yesterday.
The combined passing out parade, piping and oath taking ceremony of Officer Cadets of the NDA’s 62 Regular Course and Short Service Course 43 was the very first passing out parade the president administered since he assumed office.
He said, “I wish to remind you of the federal government’s commitment to overhaul the rules of engagement and improve operational and legal mechanisms so that disciplinary steps are taken against proven human rights violations by the armed forces.
“We are committed to a thorough investigation of recent and any future occurrences of human rights violations by elements of our armed forces.”
Buhari maintained that his administration would insist on the rule of law by dealing with any proven cases of deviation from laws of armed conflict, including human rights abuses while applauding the integrity and sterling record of the armed forces as an institution,
He said, “in operational conduct, Nigerians expect our armed forces to keep law and order, and not to behave like bullies. Let me reiterate this administration’s commitment to due process, merit and total observance of the rule of law as central pillars of a prosperous and democratic society.
“Rule of law as an element of good governance applies to the armed forces as much as any institution in our country. It is therefore gratifying that all three services have recently taken steps to emphasise strict adherence to rules in recruitment, promotions, procurement, project executions and civil-military relations.”
Noting that security remained the most crucial challenge in his administration’s “change” agenda, Buhari added that the nation expected exemplary conduct and professionalism from officers and men of its armed forces at all times and in all situations.
President Buhari told the newly-commissioned officers that, “the objectives of our fight against terrorism cannot be realised without a credible and effective military. You must avoid any behaviour that will tarnish your honour and dignity as commissioned officers.
“Your commitment and loyalty to the armed forces and the nation must be total. I urge you to take your roles in the on-going process of rebuilding our armed forces very seriously.”
President Buhari reiterated that the federal government was pleased with the resolve by the military to end insurgency that had bedeviled the country once and for all.
He assured the armed forces of his administration’s determination to ensure the speedy provision of platforms and equipment they require winning the war against terrorism and meeting their long-term needs.