Fellow of the Nigerian Institute of International Affairs (NIIA), Akin Osuntokun has criticised former Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Lucky Irabor (rtd.), over his public comments defending Lieutenant A.M. Yerima in the widely discussed altercation with the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike.
Osuntokun shared his views during an interview on Arise News from 8:27, describing Irabor’s position as disappointing and inconsistent with the principles of civil–military relations in a democracy.
In his remarks, Osuntokun said he found it troubling that a former military chief would justify the conduct of the young officer, especially in a situation involving a civilian authority. According to him, Irabor’s defence risked sending the wrong message about the limits of military authority in a democratic setting.
“Well, the one that disappointed me most was former Chief of Defence Staff, Irabor. I heard him justifying and then saying that the man wearing a uniform embodies the Nigerian Constitution. That is correct, but that is in the lawful implementation of his duty,” Osuntokun said, stressing that military personnel are bound by strict protocols governing engagement with civilians, especially elected and appointed officials.
The incident between Wike and Lieutenant Yerima, which surfaced in a viral video, has drawn spirited public reactions, with many Nigerians taking sides. Irabor’s intervention further fueled debate after he argued that soldiers represent the authority of the Nigerian state and, by extension, the constitution.
Osuntokun, however, cautioned against narratives that appear to elevate military authority above democratic institutions, insisting that uniforms do not confer unlimited power. He noted that democratic governance thrives when both civilian and military actors respect their constitutional boundaries. View, More,
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