Human Rights Day: We are committed to defending human dignity, says Army

The Nigerian Army has restated its commitment to defend human
dignity and advance the cause of freedom of Nigerians throughout
the country.

The Chief of Army Staff, Lt.-Gen. Tukur Buratai made the pledge
on Monday in a message to mark the 2018 “International Human Rights
Day.”

NAN reports that the day is observed every year on December
1o.

Buratai emphasised that the army firmly believe that the
promotion and protection of human rights are “essential component
of military operations.”

He, however, noted with regret the situation in some areas in
the North Eastern States of the country, “where heinous acts of
terrorism continue to be perpetuated by Boko Haram terrorists.”

“We firmly embrace the idea and the message behind the
International Human Rights Day and we are committed to doing our
part to spread awareness and support for human rights every
day.”

“On this day, I recommit the Nigerian Army to supporting the
brave officers, men and women who are working daily to defend human
dignity and advance the cause of freedom of Nigerians across the 36
states of Nigeria and the Federal Capital Territory.”

While he paid tribute to the officers and men, who had paid the
supreme sacrifice in the pursuit of human rights for people in the
North East, he said the “resurgent acts of terrorism challenges the
rights that we celebrate today.”

The army chief appreciated the support and partnerships from
local and International Non-Government Organisations in the effort
to defend human dignity.

“I specifically note the support of the National Human Rights
Commission.

“Its human rights training programme for military personnel and
its Nigerian Military Human Rights Dialogue initiative have largely
enhanced the human rights awareness and education of our
personnel.

“I am also thankful for our partnerships with the office of the
United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, the
International Red Cross and Crescent as well as the Nigerian Bar
Association,” he said.

NAN reports that the United Nations General Assembly adopted the
Universal Declaration of Human Rights on December 10, 1948.

Related

Police Warn Against Use of Fireworks, Knock-Out in
Abuja

As part of the effort to forestall any act that will create
unnecessary tension and cause a security breach, the FCT Police
Command wishes to remind residents that the ban on the use of
fireworks/knock-out is still in place. Residents are therefore
warned against using it.

While calling on residents to be vigilant and report all
suspicious movements to the police, parents and guardians are
advised to caution their children and ward against the use of
fireworks/knock-out as criminals could hide under the same guise to
commit crime.

All Area Commanders and Divisional Police Officers have been
directed to ensure strict compliance with the existing ban on the
use of fireworks and knock-out in the Federal Capital Territory.
Those arrested for violating the ban will be prosecuted.

In case of distress, the Command can be reached on: 08032003913,
08061581938, 07057337653 and 08028940883.

DSP Anjuguri Manzah
Police Public Relations Officer
FOR: Commissioner of Police,
FCT Police Command