A former Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Lucky Irabor (rtd), has condemned the act of insulting or physically touching military personnel in uniform, describing it as an offence against State.
Irabor, who spoke on Day 2 of the 21st Annual Nigerian Editors Conference (ANEC) at the NAF Centre in Abuja, said: “It is even worse when the military man is an officer with a presidential commission.”
Irabor seemingly referenced the recent altercation between FCT Minister Nyesom Wike and a naval officer, Lieutenant AM Yerima.
Irabor emphasised that the uniform worn by military personnel symbolises State authority, adding that any disrespect shown to them while in uniform is tantamount to disrespecting the State.
He noted that even as a former Chief of Defence Staff, he would not have been at liberty to physically touch or slap a soldier, and would have faced disciplinary action if he had done so.
The retired general cited the example of the United States, where it is considered an offence to touch or insult a police officer in uniform, even if they are wrongfully brutalizing a citizen.
Irabor stressed that this culture of respect for military and law enforcement personnel is universal, and that Nigerians should also respect the men and women in uniform who serve the country.