ADC also expressed concern that the reshuffle came soon after widespread rumours of an attempted coup.
By Kehinde Okeowo
The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has stated that for President Bola Tinubu to avoid setting off speculation following his “sudden and surprising overhaul” of the nation’s military leadership, he must provide Nigerians a clear and honest explanation for his action.
ADC gave the advice on Friday in a statement issued by its National Publicity Secretary, Mallam Bolaji Abdullahi,
The opposition party’s comment follows President Tinubu’s recent removal of most of the Service Chiefs he had appointed nearly two years ago.
On Friday, the President announced their sacking, exempting” the Chief of Army Staff, General Olufemi Oluyede, who was elevated to Chief of Defence Staff, and the Chief of Defence Intelligence, Major-General E.A.P Undiendeye, who retained his post..
The changes in the security configuration came days after a reported coup scare. Authorities have yet to confirm the authenticity of the reported coup.
Confirming the development, presidential aide, Sunday Dare, said the changes in the hierarchy of the Service Chiefs were in furtherance of the efforts of the Federal Government of Nigeria to strengthen the national security architecture.
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While extending the president’s appreciation to those sacked he said, “The President, Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, expresses most profound appreciation to the outgoing Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, and the other Service Chiefs for their patriotic service, and dedicated leadership.”
Reacting to the decision, the ADC expressed concern that the reshuffle came soon after widespread rumors of an attempted coup.
Abdullahi said although the President has the constitutional right to make changes in the military hierarchy, the timing of this decision raises serious questions. He added that the government’s reaction to the coup rumors lacked clarity and created confusion among Nigerians.
He went on to note that many of the dismissed officers had barely served three years in office, with the now-removed Chief of Defence Staff only promoted last year. The party warned that such a sweeping change could unsettle the military and threaten internal stability.
The statement further stressed that the government owes the public a full and transparent account of what truly prompted the decision. It accused the Tinubu administration of being distracted from critical national security challenges, pointing out that insurgency and banditry continue to spread across the country.
The ADC said the wholesale replacement of military heads could fuel more suspicion and conspiracy theories among citizens. It therefore called on the government to act transparently and assure the public that Nigeria’s democracy remains stable and secure.
“As an opposition party, our concern is the peace and stability of Nigeria,” the ADC said, warning that the situation in neighboring Chad and other Sahel countries should serve as a reminder of the dangers of political distraction in times of insecurity..
