The Deputy Spokesperson of the House of Representatives, Philip Agbese, has said the demand for change of service chiefs, is not for Nigeria’s benefit but a survival tactic for terror sponsors.
Agbese noted that there is tangible and strategic gains in Nigeria’s campaign against terrorism, banditry and other crimes threatening national stability, courtesy of Chief of Defence Staff, CDS, General Christopher Gwabin Musa, and other service chiefs.
The lawmaker, who represents Ado/Okpokwu/Ogbadibo Federal Constituency of Benue State, said the current military leadership has reinvigorated counter-insurgency and counter-banditry operations in a manner that is restoring public confidence.
He insisted that recent calls in some quarters for the removal of the service chiefs were “propaganda warfare” from terrorist networks, designed to demoralise troops and distract the public from ongoing successes.
Speaking with journalists on Thursday at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja on his way to an international engagement, the UK-trained lawyer urged Nigerians to resist narratives that weaken the morale of fighting forces.
“The service chiefs have given us clear evidence that Nigeria can win this war. The terrorists and their enablers understand this, so they resort to psychological warfare. Their demand for a change of leadership is not for Nigeria’s benefit it is a survival tactic for terror,” Agbese said.
He noted that hosting of the African Defence Chiefs’ Summit in Abuja in August was a landmark achievement that showed the vision extended beyond Nigeria to the continent at large.
“That summit was not just a gathering; it was a statement. Nigeria, under General Musa, showed leadership by convening African militaries to discuss African solutions to African problems,” Agbese said.
Agbese also commended the Chief of the Naval Staff (CNS), Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ogalla, for his determined fight against oil theft, illegal refining, and maritime crime.
He said the Navy’s successes in protecting pipelines and curbing smuggling have translated directly into improved revenue inflows for the government.
“The Chief of Naval Staff has demonstrated an uncommon commitment in safeguarding Nigeria’s maritime domain. His leadership in curbing pipeline vandalism, oil theft, and other maritime crimes has not only secured vital national assets but also restored confidence in our waters. Today, illegal oil smuggling is no longer the thriving industry it once was, thanks to his strategic innovations and the dedication of naval officers under his command,” Agbese said.
“General Oluyede is not a desk officer; he is on the ground with the troops. His operational strategy has degraded terrorist enclaves in the North-East and weakened bandit networks in the North-West. Communities are regaining confidence because they see the Army’s presence and feel its renewed vigour,” Agbese observed.
He added that Oluyede’s outreach to local communities in conflict zones has also created fresh avenues for intelligence-gathering, which is proving decisive in anticipating and thwarting attacks.
“Security cannot be won by bullets alone; it requires the trust of the people. General Oluyede understands this and has fostered the kind of community collaboration that gives our troops a critical advantage,” he said.”
On calls for the sack of the service chiefs, the deputy spokesperson said Nigerians must reject the “propaganda of despair.” According to him, those amplifying such calls are unwittingly aiding terrorist strategy.
“Our service chiefs are among the finest officers in Africa today. They are respected globally for their professionalism and results. To call for their removal now is to sabotage the progress we are making. We cannot allow terrorists to set our agenda,” he declared.
Agbese urged Nigerians to remain steadfast in their support for the armed forces while holding leaders accountable through constructive engagements.
