By Bashir Aliyu
Abuja- Nigeria- A former militant leader in the Niger Delta and prominent member of the third phase of the Presidential Amnesty Programme (PAP), Osaanya Ossanya, has accused “failed politicians” of orchestrating a campaign to discredit the National Security Adviser (NSA), Mallam Nuhu Ribadu.
Ossanya expressed dismay over attempts to link Ribadu to the 2031 presidency, describing such moves as a deliberate ploy to create friction between the NSA and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. He argued that these efforts are designed to distract Ribadu from his critical role in combating threats to Nigeria’s unity and peaceful coexistence.
“Why would any sane person drag Ribadu into the politics of 2031, which is still six years away, if not to pit him against President Tinubu and divert his attention from the fight against Nigeria’s enemies?” Ossanya questioned.
The ex-agitator, in a statement, praised Ribadu’s efforts in improving Nigeria’s security landscape, citing the country’s improved Global Terror Index score from 8.065 in 2023 to 7.575—the best in over eight years. Despite these achievements, Ossanya lamented that Ribadu continues to face unwarranted criticism and vilification.
“That is why they have resorted to blackmail and all manners of propaganda against Ribadu, who is doing a great job that we are all proud of,” he stated.
Ossanya warned those behind the media attacks to desist, emphasizing that Nigerians, particularly the people of the Niger Delta, stand firmly behind Ribadu. He highlighted the NSA’s successes, including the elimination of key terror figures and the restoration of safety on major routes such as the Abuja-Kaduna Road.
“Under Ribadu’s leadership, Nigerians can now travel freely on roads that were once terror hotspots. This is a testament to his dedication and effectiveness,” Ossanya noted.
While acknowledging that more work remains to be done, Ossanya called for widespread support for Ribadu and the Tinubu administration in their efforts to rid the country of notorious criminals and their financiers. He also commended Ribadu’s holistic approach to national security, which extends beyond physical safety to include food security and economic stability.
“Trucks carrying farm produce are now monitored up to the market to prevent diversion to neighboring countries. Similarly, the smuggling of petrol has been significantly curtailed. These are commendable efforts that deserve recognition,” Ossanya added.
The former warlord described Ribadu as “one of the best National Security Advisers Nigeria has ever had,” praising his intelligence, dedication, and commitment to safeguarding the nation. He condemned the recent media attacks on Ribadu as baseless and politically motivated, urging Nigerians to ignore such distractions.
“Linking the NSA to phantom presidential ambitions is absurd and a deliberate attempt to destabilize his focus. Ribadu’s priority is the security and well-being of Nigeria, and we must all support him in this mission,” Ossanya concluded.