“The video in question was taken at Falgore Forest Military Training Camp during the 3 Brigade Nigerian Army Training Exercise where Hon Alhassan Ado Doguwa was invited as a special guest,” the Defence Headquarters says.
The Nigerian Military stated this in a reaction to a viral video circulating in the Social Media platforms, where the Majority Leader of the House of Representatives, Hon Alhassan Ado Doguwa was seen firing a AK 47 rifle guided by military personnel.
According to a Statement by Brigadier General Tukur Gusau, the Acting Director Defence Information, the video is described as “a calculated attempt by mischief makers to discredit the Armed Forces of Nigeria and dent its image before the good people of this country and the world at large.”
The Statement explains that firing exercise where invited senior citizens and Special Guests participate in the ceremonial firing party is a common practice the world over and not necessarily to make them trained gunners or to master the use of firearms.
“However, the viral video of Hon Doguwa was posted with an intent to dent the image of the Armed Forces of Nigeria especially at this period when the role of the Armed Forces in the last Presidential and National Assembly elections was hailed by Nigerians and the International community.
“In addition, some clerics have equally released audio clips containing wrong interpretations of the speech the Majority Leader made at the occasion. This doctored interpretation of the speech is capable of instigating crisis, thus leading to heightened tension as the country prepares for a smooth transition to another elected government.
“The Defence Headquarters wishes to assure Nigerians that on no occasion would the Armed Forces of Nigeria engage in training or arming any individual or group of persons to take up arms against law abiding citizens.
“As a responsible Force, we will continue to discharge our constitutional responsibilities while also remaining apolitical to strengthen the democratic values of our great nation. We also want to use this opportunity to advise mischief makers not to dent the image of the Armed Forces with senseless videos and unconfirmed audio clips but rather channel their energy in making sure our country continues to strive higher in the preservation of our democratic gains,” the Statement concludes.
