The Anambra State governorship candidate of the United Progressives Party (UPP), Chief Osita Chidoka has called on the Nigerian Army to make public the report of its investigation on the activities of military men in the South-East while carrying out the military exercise, Operation Python Dance 11.

In a press statement made available to journalists in Awka and signed by Viola Ifeyinwa, Director of Media of Osita Chidoka Campaign Organisation, Chidoka stated: “We urge the military high command to release the report of its investigation on alleged abuses and violation of the rights of citizens by security officials involved in the widely criticised Operation Python Dance in the South-East.

Chidoka, former Aviation Minister, said this was necessary as the Igbo commence the 50th remembrance of the horrific massacre of the innocent in Asaba during the civil war.

He urged the Federal Government to use the occasion to heal the wounds caused by the civil war on the Igbo by issuing an official statement expressing regret.

The UPP flagbearer noted that the fact that Igbo people still hold unto the memories of the ugly incident of 50 years ago showed that there is dire need for genuine healing.

The statement read in part: “Recall that the military had acknowledged that it was investigating reports of alleged rights violations including a video showing the dehumanisation of civilians by some soldiers along Port Harcourt – Enugu Expressway.

“We therefore urge the military to accelerate its inquest, make its findings public and apply appropriate punishments on errant officers, while mechanisms are put in place to end such violations.”

While commending well-meaning Nigerians from other parts of the country such as Nobel Laureate, Prof. Wole Soyinka and the Catholic Bishop of Sokoto Diocese, Rev. Fr. Mathew Hassan Kukah for identifying with the anniversary, Chidoka advocated the continued spirit of brotherliness among Nigerians.

He also assured of his commitment towards the pursuit of the interest of Ndi-Igbo through institutionalised legal and legitimate means.

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