•Commander, Nigerian Army, Ohafia, Abia State, Brigadier General Ahmad Mansur Dikko
The Commander, Nigerian Army, Ohafia, Abia State, Brigadier General Ahmad Mansur Dikko, has urged journalists to report any act of misconduct involving personnel of the brigade within the state to his office.
Dikko, who also doubles as the Commander Sector 3 Joint Task Force South East Operation UDOKA, spoke on Tuesday during an interaction with journalists at the 14 Brigade Headquarters, Ohafia.
He added that soldiers seen escorting celebrities should also be reported to the command, reports The PUNCH.
He reaffirmed the Nigerian Army’s commitment, in line with the Chief of Army Staff, Lt Gen Waidi Shaibu’s philosophy on media relations, to fostering a strong and mutually beneficial relationship with the media community.
Dikko, who appreciated the delegation’s visit, highlighted the pivotal role of the media in nation-building, noting that while the media possesses the capacity to build trust and confidence, it can equally erode it if not professionally managed.
He said, “Any cases of misconduct involving personnel should be promptly reported or directed to the Officer Commanding 14 Brigade Military Police for necessary disciplinary action.
“I commend the members of the Nigeria Union of Journalists for their support in projecting the activities and achievements of the Nigerian Army in Abia State. The Army relies significantly on credible media platforms to inform the public of its commitments, operations and successes.
“I want to assure you of our Brigade’s unwavering commitment to professionalism, transparency, and timely engagement with journalists at all times.”
The commander reiterated the Brigade’s mandate and resolve to maintain security and stability across its Area of Responsibility while strengthening civil-military cooperation.
He encouraged members of the public to take advantage of available facilities in the barracks, including the medical centre, schools and market, when appropriate.
In his remarks, the NUJ Chairman, Chidi Asonye, stated that the visit was aimed at formally welcoming and interacting with the new Brigade Commander, as well as reaffirming the Union’s readiness to sustain cordial working relations with the military.
Asonye, represented by Felix Obani, acknowledged the critical role of the media as a bridge between institutions and the general public, emphasising the importance of responsible journalism in shaping public perception and promoting balanced reportage.
He also solicited continued cooperation and support to enable the Union to effectively discharge its professional responsibilities.
The high point of the visit was the presentation of a commemorative plaque by the Brigade Commander to the Chairman NUJ as a symbol of mutual respect and sustained partnership.
Also speaking, the Assistant Director of Public Relations in the Brigade, Captain Mazinho Attah, stated that the visit highlights the enduring partnership between 14 Brigade Nigerian Army and the media community in Abia State, anchored on trust, professionalism, and shared responsibility in promoting peace and security.
The call comes amid growing concerns over cases of alleged misconduct by security personnel across the country, including incidents of harassment, abuse of authority and unauthorised deployment of soldiers for private duties.
