The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to provide Nigerians with a clear and transparent explanation for what it described as the unexpected overhaul of the country’s military hierarchy.
The party’s statement comes after the President dismissed several Service Chiefs he appointed nearly two years ago, a move that has stirred mixed reactions across the nation.
Party Raises Questions Over Timing and Motives
In a statement released by its National Publicity Secretary, Mallam Bolaji Abdullahi, the ADC said the timing of the reshuffle was “unusual,” especially coming on the heels of rumours about an attempted coup.
While acknowledging the President’s constitutional power to restructure the armed forces, Abdullahi noted that the lack of clarity surrounding the changes has created unnecessary anxiety among citizens.
He added that several of the affected officers had barely completed three years in their roles, with the former Chief of Defence Staff only elevated last year — raising questions about what informed the sudden move.
Concerns Over Military Stability and National Security
The ADC warned that such a large-scale change could destabilize the military’s chain of command and undermine internal security at a time when the country is battling insurgency, banditry, and other security crises.
According to the party, the Tinubu administration appears distracted from urgent national priorities, as the security situation continues to deteriorate in several regions.
“The government owes Nigerians a full and honest explanation for this decision,” the ADC said.
“Sweeping changes of this magnitude can fuel more speculation and distrust among citizens unless handled with transparency.”
ADC Calls for Transparency and Stability
The opposition party urged the federal government to reassure Nigerians of the country’s democratic stability, warning that the political tension in neighbouring Chad and other Sahel nations should serve as a cautionary tale.
“As an opposition party, our priority is the peace and unity of Nigeria,” the statement concluded. “The government must avoid actions that could deepen insecurity or weaken confidence in the nation’s leadership.”
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