Unprovoked Attack Leads to Temporary Closure
The Nigerian Army, via its official twitter handle, has provided an update on the recent unprovoked attack by unidentified hoodlums on their personnel at Banex Plaza, Wuse, Abuja. This it did through the office of the Director Army Public Relations, Major General Onyema Nwachukwu.
This unfortunate incident, which occurred on Saturday, 18 May 2024, led to the closure of Banex Plaza the following day. The army’s response aims to restore order and ensure public safety in the Federal Capital Territory.
High-Level Security Meeting Convenes
In light of this incident, a high-level meeting was promptly convened in the Office of the National Security Adviser. This meeting included key officials such as the Principal General Staff Officer to the NSA, the Commissioner of Police FCT, the FCT Director of the Department of State Services, and representatives from Banex Plaza management, the Abuja Environmental Protection Board, and the Mobile Phone Traders Association. The primary goal was to identify the perpetrators and ensure ongoing security.
Resolutions from the Meeting
During the meeting, several resolutions were agreed upon. Firstly, Banex Plaza will be immediately reopened to the public, restoring normal business activities. However, Shop C93 will be closed immediately, as it is believed to be linked to the orchestrators of the attack. Additionally, the shop owners responsible for the mob attack are to be arrested and handed over to the Nigerian Police. Market leaders are also instructed to remain vigilant and report any remaining perpetrators.
Arrests and Further Investigation
Following these decisions, the two individuals already arrested have been transferred to the headquarters of the Nigerian Army Corps of Military Police for further action. The Nigerian Army will also conduct a thorough investigation into the circumstances that led to the presence of its personnel at the plaza and the subsequent attack. This investigation aims to prevent future incidents and ensure accountability.
Call for Public Cooperation
The Nigerian Army emphasized that acts of violence against military personnel are not only condemnable but also pose a significant threat to national security and public order. They urge the public to exercise caution and restraint when interacting with military personnel and other security operatives, particularly those in uniform. There are established channels for reporting grievances or misconduct, which should be used to maintain order and respect for those serving the nation.
Commitment to Public Safety
The Nigerian Army remains dedicated to ensuring the safety and security of all citizens. They will continue to work diligently to prevent such incidents in the future and maintain public trust. This commitment underscores their ongoing efforts to protect the nation and uphold the rule of law.
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