Osaanya Ossanya, a former militant leader, criticized some failed politicians for undermining National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu’s work. He praised Ribadu’s performance and Nigeria’s improved Global Terrorism Index score, while condemning political attacks against him. Ossanya emphasized the need for unity in supporting national security efforts, amidst ongoing allegations against Ribadu regarding political ambitions.
Osaanya Ossanya, a former militant leader from Nigeria’s Niger Delta region, has accused certain “failed politicians” of attempting to undermine the efforts of Nuhu Ribadu, the National Security Adviser (NSA). Mr. Ossanya, who participated in the Presidential Amnesty Programme, asserts that these politicians are unhappy with Nigeria’s progress in combating terrorism and have resorted to discrediting Mr. Ribadu’s accomplishments.
In a statement to PREMIUM TIMES, Mr. Ossanya expressed disappointment over the vilification of Mr. Ribadu despite significant strides made in national security, evidenced by improvement in Nigeria’s Global Terrorism Index score, which dropped to 7.575 in 2024, the best in over eight years. He refrained from naming the politicians involved but denounced attempts to politicize Mr. Ribadu’s position in relation to the 2031 elections.
The former militant leader cautioned against media campaigns targeting Mr. Ribadu, emphasizing that his contributions are broadly recognized and supported by Nigerians, particularly those from the Niger Delta. He noted that under Mr. Ribadu’s leadership, the Nigerian military has successfully neutralized prominent terrorists, facilitating safer travel along key routes such as the Abuja-Kaduna Road.
While acknowledging that more work is necessary to enhance security, Mr. Ossanya called for continued support for both Mr. Ribadu and President Bola Tinubu’s administration. He highlighted Mr. Ribadu’s comprehensive approach to national security, which includes addressing food security alongside physical safety.
He remarked on the positive results of the NSA’s initiatives, such as improved monitoring of agricultural product transport and a decrease in petrol smuggling activities, affirming that these efforts deserve commendation.
In recent weeks, allegations against Mr. Ribadu surfaced, including claims by Tigran Gambaryan from Binance that Ribadu sought personal benefit from Nigeria’s issues with the firm, and grievances from former Kaduna Governor Nasir El-Rufai, who implied that the NSA harbors political ambitions for 2031. However, Mr. Ribadu has denied such claims and stated his focus remains on national responsibilities.
The insights shared by Osaanya Ossanya underscore the complexities surrounding national security in Nigeria and the political machinations that accompany it. His defense of the National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu, amid attacks from certain politicians, highlights the ongoing struggle between public service and political ambitions. Despite the challenges, Mr. Ossanya calls for unity and support behind Mr. Ribadu’s initiatives to secure Nigeria from terrorism and enhance overall stability.
Original Source: www.premiumtimesng.com
