COAS Warns Soldiers Against Abuse Of Social Media Usage, Reads Riot Act

By Akinwale Kasali

The unknown officer who insulted and maligned the person of Governor Babajide Sanwo Olu on the Social Media following the arrest of a Soldier who drove against traffic has led to the Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja, reading a riot act to all soldiers on their usage of Social Media.

The Army Chief cautioned his men against the abuse of social media, and warned them sternly that the Army authorities would not take it lightly with any personnel who take to social media to denigrate constituted authorities.

Lagbaja who gave the warning while addressing soldiers during a familiarisation tour at 14 Brigade Ohafia, Abia State, tasked soldiers with showing loyalty and respect for the core values of the Nigeria Army.

Condemning the recent uncomplimentary remarks by a ‘one-way- soldier-driver’  against the Governor of Lagos State, the COAS threatened severe sanctions against any soldier abusing the use of social media.

He said, “Social media is good, but you must use it responsibly. We will not go to social media and start abusing constituted authorities like the young soldier did against the Lagos State Governor.

“What you cannot do to your dad or elders at home, don’t do to others. The Army is a disciplined organisation, and we can’t tolerate that. If we see it, we will descend heavily on you.

“You must conform to the rules and regulations that guide us. We have our core values, and we expect every soldier to abide by them.”

He assured the soldiers of enhanced welfare, adding that the Federal Government has approved payment of the backlog of the Group Assurance package for the families of their departed colleagues.