In a statement today, the Director of Army Public Relations, Colonel Sani Usman said that the Shiite sect on the orders of their leader, Ibrahim Elzak-zaky, allegedly attacked the convoy of Tukur Buratai, the Chief of Army Staff, in Kaduna state.
He said that the attack took place while Buratai was on his way to pay homage on the Emir of Zazzau and attend the Passing Out Parade of 73 Regular Recruits Intake of Depot Nigerian Army in Zaria.
“The sect, numbering hundreds, carrying dangerous weapons, barricaded the roads with bonfires, heavy stones and tyres. They refused all entreaties to disperse and then started firing and pelting the convoy with dangerous objects.
“The barricade was obviously a deliberate attempt to assassinate the Chief of Army Staff and members of his entourage while on a legitimate official assignment as Special Guest of Honour at the passing out parade which has earlier been widely publicized.
“The troops responsible for the safety and security of the Chief of Army Staff on hearing explosion and firing were left with no choice than to defend him and the convoy at all cost as well as open up the barricaded road for law abiding citizens. This is in line with the Nigerian Army Rules of Engagement and Code of Conduct.”
Usman made it clear that such kind of behaviour would not be tolerated from any individual or groups and should not be allowed to repeat itself. [myad]
