The Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Taoreed Lagbaja, has mandated a thorough and impartial investigation into the recent incident at Command Secondary School Iyana Ipaja, Lagos.
This directive was announced by Major General Onyema Nwachukwu, the Director of Army Public Relations, in response to concerns raised by the Association of Senior Civil Servants of Nigeria (ASCSN) regarding the treatment of civilian workers at the school.
In a press statement released Tuesday, Major General Nwachukwu emphasized that the investigation, to be led by the Provost Marshal (Army), will comprehensively address all allegations brought forward by the ASCSN. Lieutenant General Lagbaja’s action highlights his commitment to ensuring the rights of all personnel, including civilian staff, are respected and upheld.
“The Nigerian Army recognizes the vital role that civilian staff play in supporting its operations and day-to-day administration,” said Major General Nwachukwu. “We are dedicated to fostering a positive and respectful working environment for all personnel.”
The Army acknowledged that misunderstandings or miscommunications may occur, but the ongoing investigation aims to provide clarity and implement necessary measures to prevent similar incidents in the future. The NA is committed to upholding the rule of law and respecting the rights of all employees, including their fundamental rights to freedom of association and collective bargaining.
Currently, the Nigerian Army is actively engaging with the Ministry of Defence and the ASCSN to address outstanding issues and promote a cordial working relationship and industrial harmony. The Army believes that open communication and collaboration are key to resolving challenges.
“As the investigation progresses, we urge all parties to refrain from making premature judgments or spreading misinformation,” Major General Nwachukwu added. “Trust in the process is essential. We are confident that the investigation will provide a clear and accurate understanding of the situation to facilitate appropriate and fair actions. We appreciate the patience and understanding of all stakeholders as we diligently work to address these concerns.”
The Nigerian Army’s commitment to resolving the situation underscores its dedication to maintaining a respectful and lawful working environment for all its personnel.