Tinubu Revealed Why He Fired Service Chiefs

News Update

President Bola Tinubu on Friday revealed why he sacked Nigeria’s top military officers.

In a statement, the president described the move as necessary to improve the country’s security system.

Tinubu explained that the reshuffle was aimed at strengthening the Armed Forces and ensuring they serve the nation effectively.

He expressed appreciation for the outgoing service chiefs for their years of service and leadership.

The officials removed from their positions include General Christopher Gwabin Musa, former Chief of Defence Staff, Air Marshal Hasan Bala Abubakar, former Chief of the Air Staff, and Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ikechukwu Ogalla, former Chief of the Naval Staff.

The new appointments see General Olufemi Oluyede taking over 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. Major-General E.A.P. Undiendeye continues as Chief of Defence Intelligence.

The President urged the newly appointed chiefs to maintain professionalism, unity, and vigilance as they lead the Armed Forces to secure Nigeria.

This decision comes against the backdrop of reports that some military officers were plotting to oust Tinubu’s government.

Sources say that military authorities have detained around 16 to 20 officers under investigation for suspected involvement in planning to overthrow the administration.

The Defence Headquarters created a panel to examine the matter, describing it as part of measures to tackle indiscipline and breaches of military regulations.

Officials also cancelled the country’s 65th Independence Day parade, which some believe was due to the unsettled security situation although the Defence Headquarters stated that this explanation was administrative.