The Nigerian Army has cautioned its personnel against the misuse of social media, warning that soldiers who violate established regulations governing online conduct would face disciplinary measures.

The warning was issued by the Provost Marshal of the Nigerian Army, Maj. Gen. Mathias Erebulu, during a training seminar for Military Police personnel. The seminar was featured on African Independent Television’s flagship morning programme, Kakaaki, on Thursday.

Addressing participants, Erebulu urged commanders and officers commanding various formations to intensify awareness among troops on the implications of improper social media use and the sanctions attached to violations.

“Our soldiers have no business being on social media. When they go against the First Social Media Act, they are punished,” he said.

He further directed military commanders to return to their units and educate personnel on the consequences of social media abuse, stressing the need for discipline and adherence to military regulations.

The Army provost marshal also reminded officers of constitutional provisions regarding the detention of civilians in military facilities. He stated that civilians arrested by military personnel must be transferred to the appropriate law enforcement agency within 24 hours after preliminary investigations.

“By virtue of the constitution, we are not supposed to have civilians detained in our facility,” Erebulu said.

“So, they are reminded that once a civilian is arrested, after doing the due diligence of investigating, within 24 hours, you must hand over that civilian to the agency that’s in charge.”

The seminar focused on operational discipline and professional conduct among Military Police personnel within the Nigerian Army.