62 Nigerian soldiers repatriated from Sudan for indiscipline

Maj.-Gen. Garba Wahab, the General Officer Commanding (GOC) 1 Division, Nigerian Army, Kaduna, said that 62 soldiers were repatriated from the United Nations mission in Sudan for acts of indiscipline.

Mr. Wahab made the remarks at the graduation ceremony of 26 Battalion pre-deployment training course 1 at the Nigerian Army Peacekeeping Centre, Jaji, near Kaduna on Sunday.

He warned troops of the 26 Battalion against similar acts, adding that the army would not accept a repeat of such acts in mission assignments.

The GOC also urged them to remain focused and highly professional in the discharge of their duties.

He said, “The Nigerian Army will not accept any situation, where its troops are disarmed; hence, the need for effective leadership at all levels.”

The GOC said that those repatriated were being investigated to ascertain their culpability in the acts and would be punished if found wanting in the discharge of their duty while in the mission area.

Mr. Wahab said, “You must be resolute in dealing with operational matters, while ensuring compliance with UNAMID’s rules of engagement and force protection measures.

“Your success in the mission area will justify resources and time spent on your training.

“It is important to remind you of the unpredictable situation in Sudan due to the complexity in the conflict environment and dynamics.”