The Nigerian Army High Command has explained the reasons behind the closure of the popular Banex Plaza in Abuja, following a violent confrontation between a mob and Army personnel.
Major General Onyema Nwachukwu, Director of Army Public Relations, in a statement on Tuesday, said:
"Following the recent unrest at Banex Plaza in Wuse, Abuja, on Saturday, May 18, 2024, unidentified assailants attacked Nigerian Army personnel. Prompt intervention by soldiers and police officers on internal security duties averted a potentially fatal situation, rescuing the attacked personnel from being lynched.
"The attacked soldiers were unarmed and did not provoke any aggression, making the attack on them completely unjustified.
"In response to the incident, a meeting was held with Banex Plaza's management. To identify and apprehend the perpetrators, activities at the plaza have been temporarily suspended. This measure aims to address the security threats posed by hoodlums using the Banex area as a sanctuary.
"An extensive investigation is underway to determine the causes of the violence. The primary goal is to ensure the safety of the Federal Capital Territory and prevent similar attacks on security personnel, as seen in other regions, such as the recent incident in Okuama.
The Army Spokesperson said, the Nigerian Army is committed to thoroughly investigating the circumstances of the personnel's presence at the plaza and the subsequent attack.
The Army Spokesperson condemns the acts of violence against military personnel as such acts threaten to destabilize law and order and pose a risk to national security.
Additionally, the Nigerian Army urges the public to exercise caution and respect when interacting with military personnel and other security operatives, especially in uniform.
He said, there are established channels for reporting grievances or misconduct by security personnel to the appropriate authorities. Utilizing these channels is essential to maintaining order and respecting those who serve and protect the nation.
