…As Bishop Onuoha seeks improved civilian-military relations
Stephen Ukandu, Umuahia
The Coalition of South East Youth Leaders, COSEYL, has demanded justice for the late James Etubi, the Food and Beverage Manager of Hotel Royal Damgrate, Umuahia, allegedly tortured to death by solders interrogating him and others following the alleged drowning of Air Force cadet, Emmanuel Onyemereche, in the hotel’s swimming pool.
This is as the Co-chair of Interfaith Peace and Dialogue Forum, Bishop Sunday Onuoha, had called for improved civilian-military relationship, and use of dialogue in settling disputes between civilians and security agencies.
COSEYL, a sociopolitical youth group in the South-East geo-political zone, in a statement by its President General, strongly condemned the unprofessional conduct of the Army that allegedly resulted in the death of the hotel staff.
The youth group commiserated with the Nigerian Air Force over the untimely death of its cadet officer, Onyemereche, “but frowns and condemns in its entirety the unprofessional conducts of the army officers who tortured staff of the hotel that led to the death of its Manager.”
The statement made available to Ikengaonline read in part: “It is totally against the rule of engagement for any public officer paid with taxpayers’ money to take laws into his or her hands. This is totally unacceptable and we call for immediate probe and necessary Stiff disciplinary actions taken against the officers involved to avoid a reoccurrence of this wicked unprofessional conduct.
“This dastardly act has reduced the reputation of the country and has put the nation in bad light among the comity of nations.
“We call on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu who is the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces to direct the Chief of Army Staff Lt. Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja to immediately bring to book the officers involved.”
In a separate statement, Bishop Onuoha said the incident was a sad reminder of the nasty relationship between civilians and security operatives, and called for a quick intervention of Government.
He said: “This incident is, unfortunately, a distressing reminder of a failing system, needing urgent and enhanced civilian-military relationships to prevent further misunderstandings, and promote peace within our communities.
“How the tragedy at Damagrete Hotel was mismanaged and subsequently degenerated into disorder underscores the critical importance of open dialogue and understanding between the Nigerian Army and civilian communities they serve and protect. It is evident that such incidents are avoidable with proactive measures aimed at fostering mutual respect and cooperation.”
The cleric urged the military authorities to be more accessible to the civilian populace for more robust relationship.
“May I strongly advocate that the Nigerian Army urgently implements an open-door policy for civilian-military relationships, providing civilians with accessible avenues to engage with the military, seek clarification on matters of concern, and report grievances. Where such policies already exist, then I implore that they be resuscitated with intention and actually implemented.
“At this time in our nation building, we should prioritize dialogue and transparency in our interactions. The Nigerian Army, as well as other security agencies, should continue to commit to fostering an environment of trust and cooperation, prevent further misunderstandings, and build a stronger, more harmonious society for our communities.
“I call upon all stakeholders, including government officials, community leaders, and military personnel, to sincerely support this initiative and work collaboratively towards resolving conflicts peacefully.
“As an Abian, and a concerned leader within the Nigerian community, it is my hope that we will seize this moment to reaffirm our commitment to fostering positive humanity and humane relationships anchored on mutual respect and consideration for all.
“Boots on the ground, hands on deck, everyone contributing to a peaceful human society for all; together we can pave the way for a brighter and more unified future for Nigeria, and Nigerians,” Bishop Onuoha pleaded.
The Army headquarters had ordered full investigations into the incident with a vow to punish any of its personnel found culpable.
Abia State Government, had also vowed to ensure that anyone involved in the deaths of both the late cadet officer and the hotel staff, faced the full weight of law.
Similarly, both the families of the deceased and the hotel Management had called for justice.
The late cadet officer allegedly died in the hotel swimming pool on April 9, in questionable circumstances when he came with a colleague to swim at the hotel.
Etubi who was employed on April 5, reportedly died while being interrogated at an Army base in Umuahia but the Management of the hotel allege torture.
