US warns Nigeria on deployment of Tucano jet against bandits

The United States has warned Nigerian military on the plans to deploy Tucano jets against bandits terrorizing the country.

It said Nigeria must comply with stipulated rules in the United Nations Charter.

Nigerian military was set to deploy the Super Tucano aircraft in the North-West and North-Central after the Federal Government officially designated bandits in the regions as terrorists.

US while showing concern over the decision, advised that the Federal Government should not deploy the aircraft in operations that encroach on traditional law enforcement role which is under police authority.

Also Read: Bloodbath In Zamfara as Bandits Attack Five Villages, Kill Residents

The Press Attaché, US Embassy, Jeanne Clark in her statement said the US government was, however, pleased that the Nigerian Air Force had used the A-29 Super Tucanos successfully against Boko Haram and the Islamic State West Africa Province.

She stated, “We are pleased the Nigerian Air Force has used the A-29 Super Tucanos successfully against Boko Haram and ISIS-WA. The sale of the A-29 Super Tucanos is governed by the US Arms Export Control Act, the Foreign Assistance Act, and other applicable statutes, and their use must conform with international norms as articulated in the United Nations Charter.

“The AECA applies to sales to all of our allies and partners and it generally cautions against uses that encroach on traditional law enforcement roles.  We are proud to partner with the government of Nigeria towards shared goals.”