Soldiers who attacked NUJ Office will be punished- Nigerian Army

Yesterday being Tuesday, September 12 2017, some of the soldiers stationed in Umuahia, Abia state for the Operation Python Dance assaulted journalists whom they said were filming them. At least two journalists were reportedly attacked at the state secretariat of Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ). The journalists said the soldiers smashed their mobile phones and other electronic devices during the incident, which occurred when the soldiers were allegedly trying to barricade the residence of separatist leader, Nnamdi Kanu. In response, the army said the soldiers involved in the assault will face disciplinary actions for their “unfortunate” misconduct.

Mr Oyegoke Badamosi, a spokesperson for the Nigerian Army 14 Brigade in Ohafia, said preliminary investigation has revealed that soldiers indeed launched aggression against the reporters who were on their legitimate duties. In a message posted on the Nigerian army Facebook page, he said: “The attention of 14 Brigade Nigerian Army, has been drawn to social media publications alleging that troops on patrol in Umuahia town have invaded the NUJ Press Centre in Umuahia at about 10.00am today. "While it was true there was an issue between some soldiers on routine patrol, the magnitude is not as was reported. "What happened was that while the soldiers on patrol near the Abia State NUJ Secretariat, they noticed some people filming them. "Unfortunately, they seized and damaged their recording devices; an iPad and 2 mobile phones.

Preliminary investigation shows that the items belong to journalists on their legitimate duties. Consequently, the Commander 14 Brigade and Deputy Director Army Public Relations 82 Division waded into the matter which has since been resolved amicably. In addition, the soldiers involved will face disciplinary action. The public are please requested to eschew rumour mongering and go about their lawful business.”