The military high command is expressing strong disapproval towards calls urging the Armed Forces to meddle in the democratic process of the nation.
Recent online comments had arisen due to concerns over troops’ welfare within the services.
However, the Defence Headquarters released a statement on Friday night, conveyed by Brig. Gen. Tukur Gusau, the Director of Defence Information. The statement condemned the request as both unpatriotic and malicious.
In a portion of the statement, it said, “The Defence Headquarters strongly disapproves of an online report discussing welfare matters within the Armed Forces of Nigeria. Suggesting that the military should interfere in our democracy is an act of great disloyalty, malevolence, and an effort to divert the Armed Forces of Nigeria from its constitutional duties.”
Gusau emphasized that the Defence Headquarters takes the welfare of its personnel seriously, but cautioned against manipulating the military against the established governmental system.
He emphasized that the military is content and functions better under a democratic regime.
Gusau stated, “Even though the AFN leadership prioritizes the well-being of its personnel, we absolutely reject any effort by an individual or group to incite the law-abiding Armed Forces of Nigeria to engage in any unconstitutional alteration of government in our country. We want to reiterate clearly that the military thrives and prospers under democracy and will not partake in any action that undermines the valued democracy of our country.”
He confirmed that under the guidance of Chief Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, the military remains loyal to the president and Nigeria’s constitution.
“The AFN, led by Chief of Defence Staff, General CG Musa, is dedicated to ensuring complete adherence of the Armed Forces to constitutional authority under His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, and will remain focused on its well-defined roles outlined in the 1999 constitution (as amended),” the statement concluded.