NORTHERNERS' CONCERNS GROW/ UNDERSTANDING THE SACKING OF SERVICE CHIEFS: A RESPONSE TO CONCERNS OF NEPOTISM AND SELECTIVE ACTION & WILL RIBADU'S NSA POSITION BE NEXT?
NORTHERNERS' CONCERNS GROW/ UNDERSTANDING THE SACKING OF SERVICE CHIEFS: A RESPONSE TO CONCERNS OF NEPOTISM AND SELECTIVE ACTION & WILL RIBADU'S NSA POSITION BE NEXT?
By Comrade Musa Mohammed Moonlight
The recent sacking of Nigeria's service chiefs by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has sparked intense debate, with some accusing the administration of nepotism and selective action. As a Northerner, it's natural to seek clarity on the motivations behind these decisions.
According to the Presidency, the decision to sack the service chiefs was aimed at injecting fresh energy and direction into the Nigerian Armed Forces, not linked to any alleged coup plot. The President exercised his constitutional powers as Commander-in-Chief, citing the need for strategic renewal amidst complex security challenges.
Addressing Concerns of Nepotism.
The new appointments include General Olufemi Oluyede as Chief of Defence Staff, Major-General W. Shaibu as Chief of Army Staff, Air Vice Marshal S.K. Aneke as Chief of Air Staff, and Rear Admiral I. Abbas as Chief of Naval Staff. Notably, Major-General E.A.P. Undiendeye retained his position as Chief of Defence Intelligence.
These changes reflect Tinubu's commitment to enhancing operational effectiveness and addressing security issues across the country, including terrorism, banditry, separatist agitations, and kidnapping.
Why Not Others?.
The President's decision to focus on the service chiefs might be attributed to their critical roles in national security and the need for cohesive leadership. The retention of Major-General Undiendeye suggests a desire for institutional stability within the security apparatus.
The sacking the service chiefs has sparked intense debate, with many wondering what's next. The move, aimed at enhancing security, has left Northerners questioning whether National Security Adviser (NSA) Nuhu Ribadu will be spared.
Critics argue the decision is long overdue, citing worsening insecurity in the North. The Northern Ethnic National Forum (NENF) and Northern Elders Forum have urged Tinubu to declare a state of emergency on security and overhaul his cabinet ² ³.
*Key Concerns:*
- Insecurity persists in Northern Nigeria, with daily banditry, terrorism, and kidnappings
- Service chiefs' replacements aim to inject fresh energy into the Armed Forces
- NSA Ribadu's position hangs in the balance, amid calls for cabinet overhaul
*Presidency's Stance:*
The Presidency insists the sacking isn't linked to coup rumors, but rather a strategic decision to address complex security challenges ⁴.
A Call for Transparency and Accountability.
As Nigerians, it's essential to demand transparency and accountability from our leaders. The Presidency should provide clear explanations for significant decisions, addressing concerns and fostering trust.
In this case, the administration has emphasized its commitment to national security and development, redirecting resources from security to vital sectors like infrastructure, power, education, and healthcare.
As Northerners await Tinubu's next move, questions linger: Will Ribadu survive? Can these changes bring lasting security? The answers remain uncertain, but one thing's clear – Nigerians demand action.
What do you think about the President's approach to national security and leadership changes? Should there be more transparency in such decisions?
And What do you think about President Tinubu's decision, and what's your take on the potential implications for NSA Ribadu?
Comrade Musa Mohammed (Moonlight)
Kaduna Based Journalist, Activist and public Analyst
musamohdeen@gmail.com
moonlightnews15@gmail.com
08038895334
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