Nigerian Military Denounces Calls for Government Toppling as “Unpatriotic” Amidst Regional Political Turmoil.
In the wake of the recent coup in Niger that ousted President Mohammed Bazoum, the Nigerian military has sternly denounced calls for a similar intervention in its own government. Brigadier-General Tukur Gusau, the Defence Information Director, labelled those advocating for the armed forces to take action against the administration of President Bola Tinubu as “unpatriotic” and condemned their actions as a deliberate attempt to destabilize the military’s constitutionally mandated duties.
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Addressing the media at a press conference, Brigadier-General Gusau stated, “The reports calling on the military to interfere in our democracy is highly unpatriotic, wicked, and an attempt to distract the Armed Forces of Nigeria from performing its constitutional responsibilities.”
He emphasized that the Nigerian military remains content under the democratic government and categorically denied any claims of poor welfare within the armed forces. “We wish to state unequivocally that the military is happy and better under democracy and will not get involved in any act to sabotage the hard-earned democracy in our country,” he asserted.
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This resolute statement follows weeks of mounting pressure within Nigeria, fueled by the successful coup in the neighboring Niger Republic. The coup in Niger resulted in the detention of President Bazoum and the establishment of a new government under the leadership of Prime Minister Ali Mahaman Lamine Zeine.
Amidst this regional political turbulence, some Nigerians have voiced support for a military intervention within their own country due to perceived shortcomings in the democratic government’s performance. However, the Nigerian military has firmly rejected any notion of involving itself in unconstitutional activities, affirming its commitment to safeguarding democracy and upholding the rule of law.
The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has reacted strongly to the events in Niger, imposing sanctions and condemning the actions of the coup plotters. During a recent summit, ECOWAS leaders instructed the regional standby force to restore constitutional order in Niger, reflecting the broader regional concern about political instability.
As Nigeria navigates this delicate period, the military’s stance on maintaining its constitutional responsibilities while upholding democracy remains clear. The government, led by President Bola Tinubu, continues to operate within the democratic framework, emphasizing its commitment to addressing the needs and concerns of its citizens. The situation in both Nigeria and Niger will undoubtedly continue to develop, with regional stability and democratic principles at the forefront of discussions.
