GOC Warns Soldiers On Religious Bigotry

The new General Officer Commanding (GOC) 82 Division, Nigeria Army in Enugu, Maj.-Gen. Sunday Idoko, has warned soldiers in the division against religious bigotry and sentiments.

Idoko who gave the warning on Friday during a familiarisation tour of the 34 Brigade, Obinze, near Owerri in Imo, said that soldiers must realise that their jobs were strictly to serve the nation and not any other interest.

He announced the introduction of a weekly joint worship by Christians and Moslems in the barracks, to strengthen oneness and religious harmony in the barracks.

The GOC reminded soldiers of the commitment of the army to the cause of the nation, which he stressed, was non negotiable.

He also said the army would not compromise on discipline, noting that discipline was one of the virtues of the army.

Idoko had earlier paid a courtesy visit to the Deputy Governor of the state, Sir Jude Agbaso, during which he commended the State Government for its assistance to security agencies.

He said that the army was determined to carry out its statutory function of ensuring internal security and defending the nation’s territorial integrity.

The GOC called on people of the state to support security agencies in fighting crimes, noting that security was everybody’s business.

The deputy governor commended the efforts of the army in the promotion of peace in the state, saying that the government would continue to equip the army and other security agencies to enhance their performances.