Civil Society Group Warns Against Politicizing Nigerian Military, Defends CDS Oluyede

Civil Society Group Warns Against Politicizing Nigerian Military, Defends CDS Oluyede

The Citizens Security Awareness Initiative (CSAI) has issued a stern warning against attempts to politicize the Nigerian Armed Forces, firmly defending Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) Gen. Olufemi Oluyede against recent partisan allegations. — ABUJA, Nigeria, Sept. 5, 2026

In a statement made available to Shemnews on Saturday, CSAI Convener Muktar Sadiq dismissed claims linking Gen. Oluyede to any political party as completely false and misleading.

He emphasized that the Armed Forces have built public trust through strict adherence to professionalism, discipline, and constitutional principles, warning that dragging the military into partisan contests could undermine the country's democratic development.

“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,” Sadiq explained. “Attempts to portray him as a partisan actor are not only false but also unfair to the Armed Forces of Nigeria.”

To preserve the military's integrity and focus, the CSAI outlined several key points for political actors and the public to consider:

* Focus on National Security: Sadiq stressed that Gen. Oluyede remains entirely focused on providing strategic leadership to military operations nationwide, protecting citizens from pressing threats such as terrorism, insurgency, banditry, and kidnapping.

* Institutional Neutrality: The group noted that the military belongs to all Nigerians, irrespective of ethnic, religious, or political affiliations. They warned that compromising this neutrality risks eroding public confidence in national institutions and weakening Nigeria's democratic framework.

* Media and Political Responsibility: The CSAI urged politicians, activists, and commentators to avoid statements that falsely align the military with specific political interests. The group also called on the media to uphold professional standards by verifying information and refusing to amplify unsubstantiated claims.

Reaffirming their confidence in Gen. Oluyede’s leadership, the CSAI commended the daily sacrifices made by officers and personnel, urging all Nigerians to support the Armed Forces and security agencies in their mission to maintain peace and stability. By ShemNews Desk | ShemNews