By Danlami Nmodu
Nigeria and Niger are in a fresh war of words following negative remarks made by Niger’s Defence Ministry.
Nigerien authorities accused Nigerian soldiers of running away from battle, This development has drawn the verbal ire of Nigeria’s defence spokesman ,Major General Chris Olukolade who in several posts on his twitter handle accused Niger of looting and supplying mercenaries to Boko Haram.
Olukolade urged Nigerians to stand up for the country and stop giving vent to negative comments from detractors.
(Images above from Major General Chris Olukolade’s twitter handle)
Responding to the Nigerien, Olukolade said “We don’t cross our boundaries. It is unacceptable for any Foreign Government to say our Soldiers run. This is your Motherland! Defend Her!
His tweets read:”Poor Niger! Treacherous ones amongst us accorded them effrontery to insult our troops to gain bad press. Don’t compromise your Patriotism!
“Some rushed to the press with the Nigerien gaffe hoping to embarrass our military or government. But nobody will disrespect my Mother!
“The Nigerien Defence Ministry’s irresponsible comment is noted. It is sad a few partisan elements join the Poor Country to insult our Troops
“Our soldiers have been defending our people & Nations wealth from mercenaries supplied to Boko Haram by those who boast that they don’t run
“Welcome our friends from Niger. No way for your infamous looting here. How the poor country compensates it’s soldiers & claim they don’t run
“very soon, it will be #VictoryforNigeria. The Nigerian Military remains a great asset and the envy of other Nations.
“He remains the gallant, brave and patriotic Nigerian Soldier. Although these battles continue, and others are now joining him, never mind
“Despite these jeerings, insults & ill wishes from within or without Nigeria, the Nigerian Soldier has not & will not be deterred
“Our soldiers have remained professional & sacrificial in protecting their fellow Nigerians, preserving the nation’s assets
“unlike others reputed for looting, mercenary engagement/collaboration with terrorists as a way of surviving the poverty in their country
