Group condems attempt to link CDS, military to partisan politics

A non-partisan Civil Society Organisation, the Citizens Security Awareness Initiative (CSAI) has condemned moves by some individuals and groups to associate the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Olufemi Oluyede, and the Armed Forces of Nigeria with partisan political activities, describing it as “baseless and should be disregarded by Nigerians.”

The group said the CDS and by extension, the armed forces of Nigeria will continue to be non-partisan and will at times uphold the constitution of the Federal Republic Nigeria.
In a statement issued in Abuja on Saturday and signed by its Convener, Muktar Sadiq, CSAI described the claims as false, misleading and capable of undermining public confidence in the military.

It insisted that the Armed Forces remain a professional institution guided strictly by the Constitution and democratic principles.

According to the organisation, the military has earned public respect through its commitment to professionalism, discipline and political neutrality, adding that attempts to drag the institution into partisan politics were dangerous to the country’s democratic development.

Sadiq noted that General Oluyede’s focus remains the defence of Nigeria’s territorial integrity and the protection of citizens against terrorism, insurgency, banditry, kidnapping and other security threats.

He said the CDS had continued to provide strategic leadership to military operations across the country and should not be distracted by what he described as politically motivated allegations.

“The Chief of Defence Staff is a professional soldier whose allegiance is to the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and not to any political party. Attempts to portray him as a partisan actor are not only false but also unfair to the Armed Forces of Nigeria,” the statement said.

CSAI argued that the military belongs to all Nigerians irrespective of political, ethnic or religious affiliations and must therefore remain above partisan contests.

The group warned that efforts to politicise the Armed Forces could erode public trust in national institutions and create unnecessary divisions within the country’s democratic framework.

It further stated that military institutions derive their credibility from neutrality and professionalism, stressing that any action capable of compromising these values should be discouraged.

The organisation also commended officers and men of the Armed Forces for their sacrifices in the defence of the nation, noting that many personnel continue to risk their lives daily to ensure peace and security across various parts of the country.

According to CSAI, the military under General Oluyede has remained focused on its constitutional responsibilities despite the complex security challenges confronting the nation.

The group urged politicians, political activists and commentators to exercise caution in their public statements and avoid making comments capable of creating the impression that the Armed Forces are aligned with any political interest.

It also called on the media to uphold professional standards by verifying information before publication and avoiding the amplification of unsubstantiated claims.

CSAI reaffirmed its confidence in the leadership of General Oluyede and expressed optimism that the Armed Forces would continue to uphold the highest standards of professionalism, patriotism and non-partisanship in the discharge of their duties.

The organisation urged Nigerians to support the military and other security agencies in their efforts to maintain peace, security and stability across the country.