The Nigerian Army has cautioned its personnel against using social media platforms, warning that officers and soldiers who violate military regulations guiding online activities would face disciplinary action.
The warning was issued by the Nigerian Army Provost Marshal, Mathias Erebulu, during a training seminar for Military Police personnel.
Speaking at the seminar, Erebulu directed commanders and officers in charge of various formations to sensitise troops on the dangers and consequences of misusing social media.
“Our soldiers have no business being on social media. When they go against the First Social Media Act, they are punished,” he said.
He further urged military commanders to return to their units and reinforce awareness among personnel about the rules governing social media engagement.
“So, it behoves the commanders and officers commanding to go back to their various formations and reiterate the consequences of the abuse of social media,” Erebulu added.
The Army chief also reminded personnel that civilians are not to be detained in military facilities beyond the constitutionally permitted period.
According to him, any civilian arrested by soldiers must be handed over to the appropriate law enforcement agency within 24 hours after preliminary investigations have been conducted.
“By virtue of the constitution, we are not supposed to have civilians detained in our facility,” he stated.
“So, they are reminded that once a civilian is arrested, after doing the due diligence of investigating, within 24 hours, you must hand over that civilian to the agency that’s in charge.”
The seminar focused on operational discipline among Military Police personnel and was featured on the flagship morning programme of African Independent Television, “Kakaaki.”
