Dr Joseph Ochogwu, Director-General, Institute for Peace and Conflict Resolution (IPCR), has called on civilians to support military personnel in their efforts to keep the country safe.
He said this in a statement issued in Abuja on Monday, against the background of the killings of 16 soldiers at Okuama community, Ewu Kingdom, in Ughelli South Area of Delta State.
According to him, the killing of the Nation’s trained soldiers on peace mission has portrayed the country in a bad light at a point when President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is using all within his power to wage war against insecurity.
“It is very sad to note that while we are praying fervently and working for peace in our country, to encourage and attract development, some persons are out there perpetuating violence.
“Our gallant security personnel need commendation in their patriotic effort to secure the nation in this trying time,”he said.
The DG stressed the need for citizens to give the military one hundred per cent support as the Institution represents our national sovereignty.
“In as much as we urge them not to relent in spite of the daunting challenges, our security personnel needs nothing less than support from citizens of this country and should not be looked down on or disrespected by whosoever has access to gun.
“A country that is not at war losing 16 Soldiers in one fell swoop is not acceptable no matter what, actions like this should be checkmated to deter others who are nursing or plotting action against our gallant security personnel.
“They deserve our praises and not our shame.
“We are calling for thorough investigation into the incident and urge the military to remain very professional at all times no matter the provocation, “he added.
The Institute also extends its deepest condolences to the Chief of Defence Staff, Chief of Army Staff, the Nigerian Army and officers on the tragic loss.