Group urges government to ban militar y escorts for VIPS

COALITION for Security and Human Rights ( ACSHR) has faulted the indiscriminate use of military escorts by influential private individuals in the society, urging the Federal Government to address the ugly development.

Members of the Northern civil society group met at the Arewa House, Kaduna, yesterday, and agreed to send their resolution to the National Security Adviser ( NSA), Minister of Defence, Chief of Defence Staff ( CDS) and the Chief of Army Staff ( COAS) for prompt action. In a statement by the Secretary, Musa Abdullahi, the group criticised the use of armed soldiers by influential private individuals. ACSHR stated: “Our mission is to ensure the security and well- being of all citizens while safeguarding their fundamental rights and liberties.

"This discussion today is to shed light on a matter that holds great significance for the Nigerian people, transcending individual interests and resonating with th e collective need for a just and secure society."

The Arewa group said it was compelled, as a coalition, to address the grave allegations against some wealthy Nigerians, which in volved harassment, intimidation, abusive and illegal use of army personnel as escorts, and land grabbing. It explained: " ACSHR firmly believes in fostering transparency and accountability in the deplo yment of our armed forces. We advocate the responsible and judicious use of military personnel, ensuring t hat their deployment aligns with establis hed protocols and national security priorities.

“While we acknowledge the crucial role played by our armed forces in addressing the myriad security challenges facing our nation, we must also be vigilant against any misuse of their power and authority."