The Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, has announced that soldiers involved in the recent attack on the Adamawa State Police Command headquarters, which resulted in the death of an inspector, will face a standing court-martial.
The incident occurred during a clash initiated by the Nigerian Army against the police in Yola.
Police sources revealed that a military armoured carrier was used in the attack around 11 pm last Tuesday, leaving some officers injured and one killed.
An officer on duty during the invasion expressed shock, stating that they initially thought the attackers were Boko Haram or other terrorists, given the unexpected nature of the assault by fellow state actors.
To address the tensions between the army and police, General Musa led principal staff officers of the Defence Headquarters on an official visit to the Nigeria Police Force at Louis Edet House in Abuja.
He condemned the attack on the Adamawa State Police Command and assured a thorough investigation, promising justice for the deceased police personnel.
General Musa highlighted the establishment of a standing court-martial for offenses in all theatres of operations, ensuring accountability for those involved in the killing of police officers and the gunfire exchange.
He stated that “a standing court-martial for offences has been established in all theatres of operations, and those involved in the police officer killings and the gunfire exchange will face the consequences.”
He emphasized the dual nature of the military system, rewarding performance and addressing flaws appropriately, while pledging continued professionalism among security agencies.
The Defence Chief committed to organizing more convergence meetings between the Nigerian police and armed forces for close coordination.
He urged officers and personnel to avoid unnecessary rivalry and called for a reorientation drive to enhance a harmonious working relationship.
Joint training and social engagements at lower cadres were proposed to boost rapport among security forces.
In response, the Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, expressed gratitude for the visit during such a critical time.
He welcomed the inauguration of a panel of inquiry into the Adamawa clash, assuring that those found culpable would face the law, and justice would prevail.