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Buratai Speaks on Insurgency Fight, Stewardship, and Arms Procurement Controversy
Buratai Speaks on Insurgency Fight, Stewardship, and Arms Procurement Controversy
Former Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Tukur Buratai (Rtd.), has opened up about his tenure in the fight against insurgency, defending his leadership while acknowledging lingering challenges in Nigeria’s security landscape. Speaking on Arise News this morning, Buratai addressed critical issues ranging from intelligence gathering to allegations of mismanaged military funds, while also highlighting key achievements under his command.
The War Against Insurgency: Did Buratai Deliver?
Buratai, who served as Nigeria’s Army Chief from 2015 to 2021, affirmed that significant progress was made in reclaiming lost territories from Boko Haram and strengthening the Nigerian Army.
“Before 2015, Boko Haram had defined a territory of roughly 120,000 square kilometers. They had cut off several parts of the North-East, including Michika, Madagali, and the borders with Chad and Cameroon. By the time I left office, we had reclaimed all of these,” he stated.
Under his leadership, the Nigerian Army successfully cleared insurgents from multiple local government areas in Borno, Adamawa, and Yobe States, restoring governance in places that were previously under terrorist control. The military also reopened major highways that had been inaccessible for years due to Boko Haram attacks, such as the Maiduguri-Bama road and the Damaturu-Maiduguri highway.
Buratai emphasized that a major focus of his strategy was intelligence-led operations, particularly between 2019 and 2020.
“We had a strategy to track insurgents’ logistics, from arms suppliers to food and fuel distributors. If intelligence operations had continued at the same intensity, more progress would have been made,” he stated.
However, when questioned about the military’s use of intelligence to identify terrorist financiers, Buratai clarified that such responsibilities fall under agencies like the Nigerian Financial Intelligence Unit (NFIU). He acknowledged the synergy between the army and NFIU but reiterated that financial tracking of terrorist sponsors is primarily a task for civilian intelligence and law enforcement agencies.
Transforming the Nigerian Army
Beyond counterinsurgency, Buratai spearheaded several modernization initiatives within the Nigerian Army.
Some of his key achievements include:
Expansion and Reorganization: He established new military commands and formations, including the Nigerian Army Special Forces Command and the Army Aviation Corps, aimed at improving rapid response to threats.
Acquisition of Modern Equipment: Under his leadership, the Army procured new armored vehicles, artillery systems, and combat drones to enhance operational effectiveness.
Infrastructural Development: Several military barracks and training facilities were rehabilitated, improving the welfare of soldiers. The Army University Biu was also established to strengthen research and professional military education.
Increased Local Production of Military Hardware: Buratai encouraged indigenous defense manufacturing, leading to the production of mine-resistant ambush-protected (MRAP) vehicles and small arms in collaboration with local defense industries.
The Arms Procurement Scandal: A “False and Malicious” Allegation?
Responding to controversies surrounding alleged mismanagement of funds meant for arms procurement, Buratai dismissed these claims as “false and malicious.”
“There was no single fund given to me directly. Every budgetary release was properly accounted for. The $1 billion security fund that has been the subject of speculation was handled by the Ministry of Defence, not the Army,” he asserted.
He further revealed that all military procurement and spending were duly reported to appropriate authorities and that records exist to verify the legitimacy of transactions. He challenged critics to conduct proper investigations rather than rely on “politically motivated” narratives.
Buratai’s Legacy and the Road Ahead
While Buratai’s tenure remains a subject of debate, his supporters argue that he laid the foundation for modernizing the Nigerian Army and restoring territorial control from insurgents. However, critics maintain that insurgency and insecurity remain significant challenges, despite the gains recorded under his leadership.
As Nigeria continues to battle terrorism, banditry, and other security threats, the question remains: Has the country built upon Buratai’s military reforms and superlative achievement , or is it still fighting the same battles with different leadership?
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Hold Peter Okoye Responsible If Any Harm Comes To Our Member – NASRE Fires Back At Singer
Hold Peter Okoye Responsible If Any Harm Comes To Our Member – NASRE Fires Back At Singer
The Nigerian Association of Social and Resourceful Editors (NASRE) has raised alarm over an alleged threat by Afrobeat artist Peter Okoye (Mr P) against journalist and NASRE Directorate member, Mr Bayo Adetu, warning that the singer will be held responsible should any harm come to the journalist or his family.
In a press statement issued on April 20, 2026, NASRE’s leadership, led by Comrade Femi Oyewale, expressed concern over the incident reportedly occurring at the Ikoyi High Court during proceedings in the ongoing legal dispute involving P-Square and their elder brother, Jude Okoye.
NASRE views the alleged statement as inappropriate and unacceptable, stating that any language suggesting intimidation against a journalist performing lawful duties raises serious concerns about press freedom, safety, and professional ethics.
The association has therefore called on Mr Peter Okoye to retract the alleged statement and issue a public apology to Mr Bayo Adetu, while also urging all parties involved in the ongoing legal matter to conduct themselves with restraint, respect, and strict adherence to the rule of law.
Read the statement below:
PRESS STATEMENT
For Immediate Release
NASRE RAISES ALARM OVER ALLEGED THREAT BY PETER OKOYE (MR P) AGAINST BAYO ADETU IN COURT, WARNS OF CONSEQUENCES
The leadership of the Nigerian Association of Social and Resourceful Editors (NASRE), led by Comrade Femi Oyewale, expresses concern over an alleged threat issued by popular Afrobeat artist Peter Okoye, widely known as Mr P, against journalist and NASRE Directorate member, Mr Bayo Adetu.
The incident reportedly occurred at the Ikoyi High Court during proceedings in the ongoing legal dispute involving the music duo P-Square and their elder brother, Jude Okoye. Eyewitnesses present in court stated that Mr Peter Okoye drew the attention of Justice Alexander Owoeye to Mr Adetu’s presence, noting that he was formerly P-Square’s publicist but now works with his brothers. The remark reportedly generated reactions in the courtroom.
It is further alleged that after the court session, Mr Peter Okoye confronted Mr Adetu in the presence of others and said, “You, Bayo, I will set you up.”
NASRE views this alleged statement as inappropriate and unacceptable. Any language suggesting harm or intimidation directed at a journalist performing lawful duties raises serious concerns regarding press freedom, safety, and professional ethics.
We state unequivocally that should anything happen to Mr Bayo Adetu or any member of his family, Mr Peter Okoye will be held accountable. Such statements, when directed at a media professional, are taken with utmost seriousness.
NASRE will not tolerate any form of intimidation, harassment, or threat against its members. We are fully prepared to activate all lawful media and legal channels to protect our members and safeguard the integrity of the profession. Mr Peter Okoye must be aware that utterances of this nature carry consequences and he will be held responsible for any outcome arising from this matter.
We therefore call on Mr Peter Okoye to retract the alleged statement and issue a public apology to Mr Bayo Adetu. We also urge all parties involved in the ongoing matter to conduct themselves with restraint, respect, and strict adherence to the rule of law.
The safety of journalists remains paramount, and the media will not be silenced.
Signed:
Lateef Owodunni
Media Director, NASRE
April 20, 2026
celebrity radar - gossips
Fuji Star, Saheed Osupa Addresses Prado Controversy, Says Vehicle Was Compensation — Not Political Gift
Fuji Star, Saheed Osupa Addresses Prado Controversy, Says Vehicle Was Compensation — Not Political Gift
By Alhaji Arems (Baba Fuji)
Nigerian Fuji star Saheed Osupa has responded to a wave of political controversy surrounding his recent campaign appearance in Oyo State, clarifying that a vehicle linked to the debate was not a political gift but compensation tied to a professional engagement.
The backlash followed the circulation of a Facebook Reel showing Osupa performing at an event associated with Sharafadeen Alli, who has declared interest in the Oyo State governorship under the All Progressives Congress (APC). As the video gained traction, it sparked renewed scrutiny over entertainers’ roles in political campaigns and the assumptions that often follow such appearances.
Amid the reactions, individuals aligned with the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) circulated claims on social media alleging that Osupa, alongside gospel artist Yinka Ayefele, had previously received luxury vehicles from the administration of Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde. The claims, which remain unverified, framed the alleged gesture as an example of questionable public spending and raised concerns about political loyalty.
Osupa has since pushed back against that narrative, offering a different account of events. In a video statement, the artist explained that his involvement in the campaign was strictly professional, based on a negotiated performance agreement rather than any form of political alignment.
According to him, he was engaged to perform at campaign events with assurances that he would be adequately compensated after the election. He, however, alleged that those commitments were not fulfilled following the electoral victory.
Addressing the controversy surrounding the vehicle, Osupa stated that his personal car was damaged during the course of the campaign. He said the replacement vehicle later provided to him was intended as compensation for that loss, not a discretionary gift or political reward.
His response reframes the discussion from one of political patronage to a dispute over professional obligations—an important distinction in an environment where entertainers are frequently enlisted to support campaign visibility.
The episode highlights a recurring tension within Nigeria’s political landscape: the blurred line between performance and perceived allegiance. For artists, participation in campaign activities can quickly shift from paid engagement to public endorsement in the eyes of observers, particularly when details of such arrangements are not clearly communicated.
Osupa’s clarification brings that tension into focus, underscoring how easily professional engagements can be recast within political narratives. As conversations continue, the situation points to a broader need for transparency in the relationship between public figures and political actors—especially in moments where perception can carry as much weight as fact.
celebrity radar - gossips
CELEBRATING A DISTINGUISHED STATESMAN: AMB. DR. BEN U.W. AMADI HONORED ON HIS BIRTHDAY FOR LEGACY OF VISIONARY LEADERSHIP AND SERVICE
*CELEBRATING A DISTINGUISHED STATESMAN: AMB. DR. BEN U.W. AMADI HONORED ON HIS BIRTHDAY FOR LEGACY OF VISIONARY LEADERSHIP AND SERVICE
*Global* – Colleagues, dignitaries, and citizens across nations today join in celebrating *Amb. Dr. Ben U.W. Amadi*, Deputy Prime Minister of the United Kingdom of Atlantis, as he marks another year of impactful life and service on this special day.
#### *A LEADER DEFINED BY EXCELLENCE AND SERVICE*
Described by peers as a remarkable personality and visionary leader, Amb. Dr. Amadi’s unwavering commitment to excellence, leadership, and service continues to inspire many across nations. His tenure as Deputy Prime Minister has been characterized by strategic diplomacy, principled governance, and a relentless pursuit of progress for the people of the United Kingdom of Atlantis and its international partners.
#### *A LEGACY OF WISDOM, CHARACTER, AND PROGRESS*
Those who have had the privilege of knowing and working with Amb. Dr. Amadi point to his wisdom, strength of character, and passion for progress as defining qualities. Under his stewardship, initiatives focused on cultural advancement, information integrity, and cross-border collaboration have gained significant momentum.
“His leadership is not measured only in policy, but in people transformed,” said a senior official from the Ministry of Information & Culture. “He leads with clarity, compassion, and an unshakable commitment to the greater good.”
#### *HONORING YEARS LIVED AND LIVES TOUCHED*
On this auspicious occasion, tributes are pouring in from diplomatic circles, civil society, and the private sector, honoring not just the years he has lived, but the lives he has touched, the legacy he is building, and the greatness that lies ahead.
From youth mentorship to international alliances, Amb. Dr. Amadi’s influence extends beyond titles. His work continues to shape discourse around sovereign dignity, cultural heritage, and responsible leadership in the 21st century.
#### *STATEMENT FROM THE OFFICE OF THE DEPUTY PRIME MINISTER*
While no formal statement has been issued by Amb. Dr. Amadi today, his office conveyed gratitude for the outpouring of goodwill and reaffirmed his dedication to the mandate of service entrusted to him by the United Kingdom of Atlantis and its citizens worldwide.
#### *ABOUT AMB. DR. BEN U.W. AMADI*
Amb. Dr. Ben U.W. Amadi serves as Deputy Prime Minister of the United Kingdom of Atlantis. He is widely recognized as a distinguished diplomat, strategist, and advocate for cultural and information advancement. His leadership philosophy centers on excellence, ethical governance, and building institutions that outlive individuals.
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