By Adeola Badru

The Chief of Army staff, COAS , Lt.-Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja, has restated the commitment of the Nigerian Army to upholding the dignity of human rights in Nigeria.

He stated this while honouring an ace television presenter, Tope Mark-Odigie also known as TMO for her contributions to human rights advocacy.

TMO was honoured after a panel session, held during the third edition of the Nigerian Army human rights seminar held at Divisions of Officers Mess, Victoria Island, Lagos State.

The honour was in recognition of her advocacy and contribution over the years in on human rights abuses to both army officers and as well civilians.

The ace TV presenter who moderated a panel session coordinated the conversation for those who felt that military officers have violated their human rights and others who also felt that the perceived abuses were out of the control of the military.

They emphasised the need to demilitarised the country and empower the police force to handle internal crises.

According to the army chief , who was represented by Major General Farouk Mijinyawa, the seminar was an opportunity for those in the judiciary and media, civil societies and representatives of local government to review and advise the army with a focus of exploring human rights.

“Army remains committed to upholding the dignity of human rights in Nigeria.This seminar is an opportunity for those in the judiciary and media, civil societies and representatives of local government to review and advise the army with a focus of exploring human rights”, he concluded.

TMO, while appreciating the COAS for the honour, promised to continue with her advocacy.