Osaanya Ossanya, a former militant leader, has criticized certain politicians for undermining National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu amidst improvements in Nigeria’s anti-terror efforts. He defended Ribadu against allegations linking him to political ambitions for 2031 and highlighted positive security outcomes during his tenure. Ossanya called for support of Ribadu and the administration of President Bola Tinubu in the ongoing fight against terrorism.
Osaanya Ossanya, a former militant leader from Nigeria’s Niger Delta, has accused certain failed politicians of undermining the efforts of National Security Adviser (NSA) Nuhu Ribadu. He asserted that these individuals are dissatisfied with Nigeria’s progress against terrorism, resorting to propaganda and blackmail aimed at discrediting Ribadu’s achievements.
In a statement released on March 9, Mr. Ossanya expressed his dismay at the criticism directed toward Ribadu amidst notable improvements in the country’s counter-terrorism measures. He highlighted a significant enhancement in Nigeria’s Global Terrorism Index score, which declined from 8.065 in 2023 to 7.575 in 2024, the best score recorded in over eight years.
While he did not specify the politicians involved, Mr. Ossanya criticized attempts to connect Ribadu’s efforts with politics leading to the 2031 elections, suggesting that such actions aim to disrupt national unity and President Bola Tinubu’s focus on security. He cautioned those behind these media attacks to cease their activities, reaffirming that the people, particularly in the Niger Delta, support Ribadu’s work against terrorism.
Mr. Ossanya acknowledged that under Ribadu’s leadership, security forces have successfully eliminated key terrorists, thus enhancing travel safety on routes like the Abuja-Kaduna Road. He recognized the necessity for further security improvements while urging the public to support Ribadu and the administration of President Tinubu. Furthermore, Ossanya commended the NSA’s comprehensive approach to security, emphasizing that it encompasses not just physical safety but also food security.
He remarked on the tangible benefits of Ribadu’s strategies, asserting, “Everything is now bearing fruit, as we can see. Our National Security Adviser, one of the best we have ever had, is on top of his game.” Mr. Ossanya noted improvements in market monitoring of agricultural produce and reductions in petrol smuggling as signs of effective security management.
Recently, Tigran Gambaryan from Binance accused Ribadu of attempting to exploit Nigeria’s conflict with the firm for his political gain, claiming Ribadu had intentions to secure payments for future ambitions. Concurrently, former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai alleged that Ribadu was implicated in his political troubles, asserting that Ribadu views him as a hindrance to his aspirations for the presidency in 2031.
Ribadu has refuted these allegations, maintaining that he remains focused on his responsibilities as NSA without interest in political aspirations. The presidency has publicly rebuked El-Rufai’s statements, advising him to handle his grievances regarding his exclusion from a ministerial role.
In summary, Osaanya Ossanya’s defense of NSA Nuhu Ribadu underscores a growing frustration with political attempts to discredit effective leadership in Nigeria’s fight against terrorism. His remarks highlight significant improvements in security metrics and call for unity against detractors. As Nigeria navigates complex political dynamics, the emphasis remains on supporting effective governance and ensuring a commitment to national security.
Original Source: www.premiumtimesng.com
