Defence HQ Says Aggrieved Soldiers In Viral Video To Undergo Counselling
Adds that two soldiers were killed and three others injured during the attack that triggered the outburst
Soldiers on patrol in Gujba, Yobe, who on Wednesday were heard in a viral video lamenting the inadequate protection afforded by the Nigerian Army will be placed under counselling, the Defence Headquarters has said.
In a statement, Maj. Gen. John Enenche, coordinator of the Defence Media Operations, also disclosed that two soldiers “paid the supreme price” and three others were injured as a result of multiple IED (Improvised Explosive Device) explosions and an ambush by Boko Haram members.
The affected soldiers, who are part of the Combat Team One under Operation Kantana Jimlan, were on a long-range administrative patrol along Buni Yadi–Buni Gari axis on Monday, May 18.
“It will not be well with the army for this thing they have done to us,” one of the soldiers could be heard saying tearfully in the viral video as he recorded a burning Mine-Resistant Ambush Protected (MRAP) vehicle.
“Look at how much suffering they have caused us. It will not be well with the army… Buratai [Chief of Army Staff], it will not be well with you for life.”
According to Maj. Gen. Enenche, during the attack, a recovery truck, vehicle, and water tanker that ran into the IED caught fire and were destroyed.
“Three terrorists were neutralized while an unconfirmed number escaped with various degrees of injury,” he said.
“However, due to mental snap/distress occasioned by fog of war, two of the soldiers who escaped the IED and terrorists’ ambush recorded the incident with uncomplimentary remarks, about the Nigerian Army and her leadership, which was released on social media.
“Although this kind of outburst is expected in war, the soldiers involved have been identified and would undergo observation and counselling.”
He assured that the Nigerian armed forces will be unwavering in its anti-terrorism fight and “will do everything possible to ensure there is no repeat of this kind of traumatic incident/outburst”.
“The Military High Command commends troops of Operation LAFIYA DOLE for their unwavering determination, hard work and resilience,” he concluded.
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