Former Army Chief, Buratai, Blames Political Class For Nigeria’s Insecurity

The former Chief Of Army Staff, Lt. General Tukur Buratai, attributed the rise in insecurity in Nigeria to challenges within the political class and emphasized the need for a strong political will to overcome these issues…CONTINUE READING

He made these remarks during the 2023 National Public Service Lecture and the 65th anniversary of the University of Ibadan Alumni Association on Friday.

Buratai expressed his perspective in a lecture titled “Public Service and the Imperatives for National Security in Nigeria,” highlighting that calls for his removal as COAS during the former President Muhammadu Buhari administration were often rooted in personal biases rather than an objective assessment of his performance.

He also urged that discussions on national security matters should focus on relevant aspects rather than personal biases and idiosyncrasies, emphasizing the need for a fair and unbiased approach.

Buratai pointed out that the National Assembly had passed multiple resolutions calling for the removal of service chiefs but was rebuffed by President Buhari, who asked them to focus on their legislative duties. He interpreted this as an attempt to undermine democracy through the military.

He used this situation to offer a lesson to political actors, stressing that the insecurity facing the country since 2009 was, in fact, created by the political class. He emphasized the importance of a strong political will to address these challenges.

Buratai also advised politicians and public servants to maintain high ethical standards by avoiding corruption.

He expressed concern about politicians making grand promises during election campaigns but failing to deliver once in office, which erodes public confidence and perpetuates the perception that politicians prioritize their own interests over those of the people.