The Nigerian Army last night refuted a press statement issued by Ibrahim Usman of Media Forum of the Islamic Movement in Nigeria, on behalf of the Shiite Islamic group, claiming intimidation of a group of Shiites by soldiers.

“One could have dismissed the unfounded allegations levelled against the Nigerian Army in that release, but for the fact that they were baseless, unfounded and capable of misleading the public,” Acting Director Army Public Relations, Colonel Sani Kukasheka Usman, said.

According to Col. Usman in a statement made available to News Express late last night, “It became imperative to set the record straight. For the avoidance of doubt, today at about 10.00am along Abuja-Kaduna road, soldiers sighted a convoy of 6 cars passing through a military checkpoint and when asked to stop, they vehemently refused. Their refusal made the unit concerned to activate various patrols into action with a view to establishing their identity, destination and motive.

“Consequently, they were pursued by activated patrols because they refused to heed to directive to stop and be searched at the check point manned by own troops at a checkpoint between Jere and Bwari.

“When they finally met up with them, the troops behaved politely, professionally and maturely despite obvious taunting and provocation otherwise they would have opened fire at them. It is instructive to note that they refused to heed to all entreaties.

“ When they were finally stopped, their language and conduct was far from civil and yet the soldiers conscious of their duties and responsibilities maintained dignified silence and having ascertained their identity, they were allowed to proceed to their intended destination. No one was intimidated or molested.

“I would like to appeal to all well meaning Nigerians that they should be conscious of the security situation in the country and cooperate fully with security agencies in event of this nature. Nobody is above the law. Contrary to the usual insinuation by them, the Nigerian Army wishes all Nigerians well and would continue to sacrifice their lives for the defence of this great nation.”