In his Easter message released to journalists in Sokoto on Sunday, Bishop Mathew Hassan Kukah of the Sokoto Diocese expressed profound concern regarding the pervasive presence of the military in Nigeria’s national life.
Bishop Kukah lamented the extensive deployment of soldiers throughout the country, describing it as reminiscent of “an army of occupation” that has spread across all 36 states and Abuja. He underscored the contradiction this poses to the concept of civilian democracy, emphasizing the need for a reevaluation of the military’s role in society.
Highlighting the remarks of the immediate past Chief of Defence Staff, General Lucky Irabor, Bishop Kukah echoed concerns about the military’s overexposure, which he termed the ‘see finish’ syndrome. He warned of the adverse implications this phenomenon could have on the professionalism, integrity, and perceived mandate of the military in safeguarding society.
Bishop Kukah commended a recent statement by Tinubu regarding the treatment of kidnappers as terrorists, urging the President to take decisive action by setting a specific deadline for eradicating insurgency in the nation. He emphasized the importance of proactive measures in combating terrorism and restoring peace and security in Nigeria.
Concluding his message, Bishop Kukah criticized Nigeria’s political leadership, likening their conduct to that of a disoriented individual struggling to find direction. He called for a renewed sense of purpose and responsibility among leaders, urging them to prioritize the welfare and security of the Nigerian people above all else.