Ernest Chinwo in Port Harcourt
The Chief of Army Staff, Lt.-Gen Tukur Buratai, has warned militants in the Niger Delta that the Federal Government would resort to the use of force if current efforts at dialogue fail.
He spoke on Monday in Port Harcourt at the inauguration of a newly built ultra-modern 2 Brigade headquarters complex and an Olympic size swimming pool, among others.
He advised militant groups operating in the Niger Delta region to take advantage of the willingness of the Federal Government to use peaceful means to end agitation in the region rather than resorting to violence.
His words: “Government is still committed to dialogue and whereby this cannot go on – then there could be resort to other means.
“The non-kinetic (force) means has always been the first choice before government can recourse to the kinetic means.
“So, there is need for the Niger Delta Avengers to see reason and dialogue with government.”
Buratai, who was represented by the General Officer Commanding 82 Division, Enugu, Maj.-Gen. Ibrahim Attahiru, also said the military would provide security for July 30 legislative re-run election if needed.
He said the army was faced with shortage of accommodation, offices and other infrastructure needed for optimal performance by troops.
The army chief informed current intervention effort in renovating dilapidated structures and building new ones despite challenges of dwindling national resources.
“The newly built RSM accommodation quarters and brigade administrative headquarters will provide a conducive atmosphere for higher productivity by officers and soldiers.
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