State government commends army-civil relations in Delta

Delta State Governor Ifeanyi Okowa has described the relationship between the military and the civil society in the state as commendable, just as he, urged the officers to be professional and exercise restraint in dealing with the civilian population.

Okowa gave the commendation yesterday at the Nigerian Army 63 Brigade Super Camp to train officers of Operation Crocodile Smile, noting that the army has played a significant role in fighting to restore law and order in the country.

In a statement issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Olisa Ifeajika, the governor, who was represented by Commissioner for Information, Charles Aniagwu, commended the Brigade Commander for the proactive action and the willingness to go the extra mile in the discharge of his duties.

“I thank the Commander for the courtesy extended to me to witness this field training code-named Operation Crocodile Smile. It is a welcome development and a clear demonstration of the vision and dedication of the command to ensure a safe and secure environment for all and sundry.

“I must thank the Nigerian Army for the enhancement of military civil relations in the state. Our people can now relate well with the military without exercising fears.

“However, there is the need for the men and officers of the force to be professional, methodical and restrained in dealing with the civilian population,” he said.

Okowa added that granted that certain security situations could be tricky and tasking, stressing that he believed that the predisposition of security personnel should be towards problem-solving and de-escalation of tension.

“They should be careful not to misconstrue cases of simple misdemeanors to be violent crimes. It is my considered view that the issue of maximum force should be a matter of last resort, especially when dealing with individuals,” he said.

Responding, Commander of the 63 Brigade, Nigerian Army, Brig.-Gen. Usman Bello, thanked the governor for his support for the brigade describing him as a “Friend of the Brigade,” saying, “Operation Crocodile Smile IV 2019 had achieved its purpose as the crime had reduced considerably in the state.