The Nigerian Army recently gave information on the regrettable incident that happened on Saturday, May 18, 2024, in Banex Plaza, Wuse, Abuja. The incident was an unprovoked attack by unknown thugs on Nigerian Army soldiers, and it resulted in the closure of the Plaza on Sunday, May 19.
A high-level meeting was called in the Office of the National Security Adviser in response to this incident. Attendees included the National Chairman of the Mobile Phone Traders Association, the Principal General Staff Officer to the NSA, the Commissioner of Police for the Federal Capital Territory, the Director of the Department of State Services for the Federal Capital Territory, the Leadership and Management of Banex Plaza, and a representative from the Directorate of Abuja Environmental Protection Board.
Finding and capturing the offenders was the main goal of this conference, along with maintaining security in the Federal Capital Territory.
There was consensus on the following resolutions:
a. Banex Plaza’s prompt reopening: The public will be able to access Banex Plaza once again.
b. Closure of Shop C93: Banex Plaza management has been directed to close Shop C93 right away.
c. Arrest of Perpetrators: The Nigerian Police will take custody of the store owners who planned the riot against the military.
d. Market Leader Vigilance: Market leaders are expected to maintain their vigilance and notify the authorities of any lingering offenders.
In addition, the two people who have previously been detained have been turned over to the Nigerian Army Corps of Military Police headquarters for additional processing.
The Nigerian Army will also look into the details of how its men ended up in the square and how the attack happened.
Reiterating that the act of violence against military personnel are not only wrong but also seriously dangerous for public order and national security is imperative. Therefore, we implore the general population to use caution and restraint, particularly when they are in uniform,
While engaging with military troops and other security professionals. Grievances and staff misbehavior can be reported to the relevant authorities through designated routes.
It is imperative that these channels are utilized to maintain order and respect for those who serve and protect our nation. The Nigerian Army remains committed to ensuring the safety and security of all citizens and will continue to work diligently to prevent such incidents in the future.
UPDATE ON THE CLOSURE OF BANEX PLAZA, ABUJA
The Nigerian Army wishes to provide latest update on the recent unfortunate event involving an unprovoked attack by unidentified hoodlums on Nigerian Army personnel at Banex Plaza, Wuse, Abuja, which occurred on Saturday 18 May 2024,… pic.twitter.com/YCubsY4Jom
— Nigerian Army (@HQNigerianArmy) May 27, 2024