Elections: Buratai distances troops from interference as EU hails Army, others

The European Union election observers have commended the Nigerian Army (NA) and other security agencies for their efforts which ensured peaceful Presidential and National Assembly elections.

Head of the delegation and Deputy Chief Observer, Ms Hannah Roberts, gave the commendation during a courtesy visit to the Chief of Army, Lt. Gen. Tukur Buratai, in his office.

The purpose of the visit was to gain insight of the NA on its roles and responsibilities in the recent federal and upcoming state elections.

“Let me thank you for finding time to receive us and commend the Nigerian Army my roles in the recent federal elections.

“We are here to further gain insight on the role and responsibilities of the Nigerian Army in the recent election and the upcoming state elections,” she said.

In his brief remarks, Chief of Army Staff Lt. Gen. Tukur Buratai said the role of the Nigerian Army was not interfering with the electioneering processes “as peddled by mischief makers” but performing its constitutional duty as guaranteed by the constitution of Nigeria which he said was to provide security.

“We are prepared and mandated by the nation’s constitution to support the Nigerian police and other security agencies to ensure secure and peaceful conduct of the election,” he said.

Buratai emphasised that the Nigerian Army would remain apolitical and neutral and would continue to support the Nigeria Police and civil authority to deal with threat that could undermine national security.

Leave a Reply