Osaanya Ossanya, a former militant leader, criticized politicians attempting to discredit NSA Nuhu Ribadu, citing Nigeria’s progress against terrorism as a key point of tension. He praised Ribadu’s leadership and comprehensive security strategies while urging political figures to focus on national unity. Amid allegations of personal ambition, Ribadu refuted claims linking him to future political aspirations, emphasizing dedication to national security.
Osaanya Ossanya, a former militant leader in Nigeria’s Niger Delta, has accused certain politicians of attempting to undermine the work of the National Security Adviser (NSA), Nuhu Ribadu, arguing that these “failed politicians” are frustrated with Nigeria’s progress in combatting terrorism. Ossanya emphasized that their tactics, which include blackmail and propaganda against Ribadu, seek to discredit his commendable efforts.
In a statement to PREMIUM TIMES dated 9 March, Mr. Ossanya expressed concern over the vilification faced by Ribadu, highlighting a notable improvement in Nigeria’s Global Terrorism Index score, which declined from 8.065 in 2023 to 7.575 in 2024—a significant achievement. While he refrained from naming specific politicians, he criticized the insinuation that Ribadu is involved in 2031 presidential politics, asserting that such claims distract from the NSA’s critical national security responsibilities.
Moreover, Ossanya warned those engaged in media campaigns against Ribadu to cease their activities, asserting that the citizens of the Niger Delta support Ribadu’s leadership in securing the nation. He noted the successful operations carried out to neutralize key terrorists in recent times, which have enhanced safety for travelers on significant routes like the Abuja-Kaduna Road.
While acknowledging ongoing security challenges, Mr. Ossanya called for continued support for Ribadu and President Bola Tinubu’s administration. His praise extended to Ribadu’s comprehensive approach to national security, which includes addressing food security. Ossanya remarked on the effective monitoring of agricultural transport and the reduction of fuel smuggling, emphasizing the positive outcomes arising from Ribadu’s initiatives.
In the backdrop of these developments, allegations have emerged from Tigran Gambaryan, the head of financial crime at Binance, accusing Mr. Ribadu of seeking personal gain amid the firm’s disputes with Nigeria. Gambaryan claimed that Ribadu attempted to enlist a US law firm for personal negotiations while in detention, alleging ambition for political advancement.
Additionally, Nasir El-Rufai, a former governor of Kaduna, has levied accusations against Ribadu, asserting that he perceives him as a threat to his political aspirations. Ribadu, however, has firmly denied any intentions regarding the 2031 presidency and reiterated that he remains focused on his current responsibilities without allowing distractions.
In response to El-Rufai’s remarks, the presidency admonished him to move past any grievances regarding his exclusion from a ministerial role.
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In summary, former militant leader Osaanya Ossanya has come to the defense of NSA Nuhu Ribadu, dismissing the motives of certain politicians attempting to undermine him. As Nigeria makes strides in its fight against terrorism, Ossanya calls for solidarity among citizens, urging for continued support of Ribadu’s efforts. Amid tensions and accusations from various figures, Ribadu insists on prioritizing national security over personal ambitions, further bolstered by governmental backing against dissenting commentary.
Original Source: www.premiumtimesng.com
