TheCable

Tukur Buratai, chief of army staff, has launched an investigation into alleged extortion of motorists by soldiers on the Maiduguri-Gamboru Ngala road in Borno state.

Sani Usman, director of army public relations, in a statement on Sunday, said the order resulted from complaints made by a certain “DanBorno” as he is known on Twitter.

According to Usman, DanBorno said soldiers allegedly collect N300,000 from each truck driver to escort the long queue of vehicles on the aforementioned road.

“The Nigerian army has noted with great concern an allegation of complacency and extortion against soldiers,” the statement read.

“Consequent upon this, TY Buratai, chief of army staff, has ordered for immediate investigation over these allegations.

“The Nigerian army as a professional military institution thrives on discipline, selflessness and dedication to duty and operates within the confines of the laws, code of conduct and rules of engagement.

“It would not tolerate any act of misdemeanour by any of its personnel.

“Similarly, we encourage members of the public to take advantage of our toll free telephone number 193 to report any observed lapses or allegation against any officer or soldier.”

Usman also enjoined members of the public, especially those in the region affected, to cooperate with the investigation team and volunteer information when called upon to so.