TheCable

The Muslim Rights Concern (MURIC) has advised the Nigerian army to sustain its operations until “criminals find something more productive to do”

In a statement by Ishaq Akintola, its director, MURIC lauded the federal government for approving the military exercise, ‘Crocodile Smile II’, in the south-west.

It described the approval of the exercise as a sign of strength, saying it is “well-known that a weak government cannot protect innocent citizens”.

It said the various exercises launched by the military are necessary to curb criminal activities in the country.

The group said the commencement of Operation Python Dance in the south-east brought calm to the region.

“MURIC commends the Nigerian Army for this proactive measure. Arrogant force will not bow until counter-force surfaces,” the statement read.

“We also laud the federal government for deeming it fit to approve the military exercises. It is well-known that a weak government cannot protect innocent citizens.

“We urge the Nigerian Army to sustain the exercise until criminals find something more productive to do.”

MURIC opposed those who condemned the exercise, describing their stand as not just “infantile but also irresponsible”.

It, therefore, called on Nigerians to give full support and cooperation to the military and urged the army to sustain the exercise.

“We are however deeply perturbed by the irrational outcry of a few disgruntled elements who have condemned the exercises. The most noteworthy is the latest call on Yorubas to boycott the medical outreach in Operation Crocodile Smile. We reject this demand,” the statement read.

“This request is sadistic and anti-people in view of the situation of medical facilities in the country as well as the poverty level among the populace. Anyone who asks the poor masses to boycott a medical outreach where they can have access to free medicare is out of touch with reality. It is only criminals and anarchists who will object to a military exercise designed to keep kidnappers and armed robbers at bay.

“Finally, we charge Nigerians in general and the Yoruba in particular, to give full cooperation to soldiers engaged in the exercise. It is for our safety. The citizenry must be security conscious. Kidnapping is alien to Nigerian culture and everything necessary must be done to bring this menace to a halt.”