Buhari: Buratai warns Army officers against secret meetings with politicians

Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Nigerian Army, Lieutenant General T.Y. Buratai, says he has received information that some individuals have been approaching some officers and soldiers for undisclosed political reasons.

Brigadier General Sani Kukasheka Usman, Director Army Public Relations, in a statement Tuesday night, said on the basis of the information, Buratai "has warned such persons to desist from these acts".

He reminded them that Nigerian Army is a thorough professional, disciplined, loyal and apolitical institution that has clear Constitutional roles and responsibilities.

"Therefore, he seriously warned and advised all officers and soldiers interested in politics, to resign their commission or apply for voluntary discharge forthwith", the statement added.

"Any officer or soldier of Nigerian Army found to be hobnobbing with such elements or engaged in unprofessional conducts such as politicking would have himself or herself to blame.

"The COAS has further reiterated that the Nigerian Army will remain apolitical and respect the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria".

DAILY POST gathered from an impeccable source that Buratai's statement came on the heels of intelligence reports that some politicians were holding secret meetings with top Army officers due to the absence of President Muhammadu Buhari.

Recall that Buhari, on May 7, travelled to London again for medical treatment.

Our source says the warning "became imperative after words got to Army heirachy on nocturnal meetings between top officers and certain prominent politicians".

"Heads of security agencies must not leave anything to chance; some people may be taking advantage of the C-in-C's absence to plot what only they can explain. God forbid a coup.

"Expect the DSS and Police to issue similar statement in the coming days. That's all I would say for now