By Davies Iheamnachor

PORT HAR-COURT—The Chief of Defence Staff, General Gabriel Olonisakin, has read the riot act to officers and ratings of the Nigerian Navy, warning that anyone who gives support to the agitation for the nation’s division would be dealt with accordingly.

Olonisakin also warned officers against acts that are capable of threatening the peace of the nation, adding that naval personnel must remain apolitical and committed to serving the nation with all honesty.

The CDS, who spoke, weekend,  while addressing and inducting 1,585 ratings during the passing out parade of the 26th batch of the Nigerian Naval Basic Training School, NNBTS, Onne, Eleme Local Government Area of Rivers State, disclosed that the nation is facing security challenges at the moment.

He warned the new ratings not to support any agitation for sectionalism, noting that their professionalism should be geared towards the unity of the nation.

The CDS enjoined the new ratings to put in all their efforts in the on going fight against insurgency, pipeline vandalism, piracy, oil theft and illegal bunkering, urging them to discharge their duty with prompt obedience to superior order and to President Muhammadu Buhari, the Commander in Chief of the Armed Forces of Nigeria.

Olonisakin said: “Therefore, you must not allow yourselves to be used mischievously by anybody for selfish ends. As a member of the Armed Forces, it is imperative that you willingly remain apolitical always. It is important you understand that you are to represent the interest of the country at all times as against some sectional interest.”