Nigerian politicians have made a habit of wearing military uniforms for electioneering campaign posters thereby abusing the privilege
The Defence Headquarters, Abuja, has warned state governors, politicians and others against using military uniforms for political campaigns and other events ahead of 2023.
This was contained in a statement issued on Wednesday by the Acting Director of Defence Information, Wap Maigida.
According to Maigida, Nigerian politicians have made a habit of wearing military uniforms for electioneering campaign posters thereby abusing the privilege the military grants civilians to wear military uniforms during military training exercises.
He stated that these practices by politicians are illegal as the Nigerian military has no political affiliation.
“Anyone found culpable would be liable to prosecution,” the defence spokesman said.
The statement reads, “The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has noticed with dismay that some politicians have formed the habit of wearing military uniforms and accoutrements for electioneering campaign posters.
“The campaign posters of some Governors, dressed in military camouflage uniforms, are displayed in noticeable areas in their respective states.
“This is manifestly illegal and an abuse of the privilege of allowing civilians to wear military uniforms during military training exercises.
“It is necessary to restate that the Armed Forces of Nigeria, as a professional institution, remains apolitical and, as such, would not want to be dragged into any form of political bias.
“Accordingly, it is important to advise politicians and others to desist from the use of military uniforms and accoutrements for political events and other engagements henceforth. Please note, anyone found culpable in this regard would be liable to prosecution.”