Former Chief of Defence Staff, General Theophilus Y. Danjuma, has strongly criticized the Nigerian government under President Bola Tinubu’s leadership for its failure to address the persistent insecurity plaguing the country.
In a speech delivered on Friday during the annual Nwonyo Fishing and Cultural Festival in Taraba State, General Danjuma expressed deep concern over the deteriorating security situation in Nigeria.
He remarked that the current state of insecurity has not only tarnished the country’s reputation globally but has also made it a subject of ridicule among the international community.
According to him, “No person or group of persons will want to come to our state or country if we continue to kill and butcher ourselves.”
General Danjuma stressed the urgent need for decisive action to tackle the security challenges before they spiral out of control.
He highlighted that the alarming level of insecurity has deterred both local and foreign investors, as well as tourists, from visiting Nigeria, as their safety cannot be guaranteed amidst the prevailing chaos.
He emphasized that without effective measures to ensure security, the government’s efforts to attract investments and promote cultural festivals like Nwonyo would be futile.
“If we continue to make our roads unsafe for people to move around, our dreams of making Nwonyo fishing and cultural festival an international festival, can not be achieved.”
General Danjuma underscored the importance of collective efforts from all stakeholders to address the root causes of insecurity and restore peace and stability across the nation.
Moreover, he urged those in positions of authority to prioritize the safety of all Nigerians and foreigners alike, as it is essential for rebuilding Nigeria’s image and fostering confidence in its security environment.
He lamented the fact that Nigeria’s current state of affairs has diminished its standing in the eyes of the international community, portraying the country as a laughing stock on the global stage.
“As the country is currently, we are a disgrace to the whole world and therefore we must redeem our image and put our house in order because right now we have become a laughing stock to the whole world.”
General Danjuma called for concerted efforts to rectify the security challenges plaguing Nigeria, asserting that only through collective action and effective governance can the country regain its dignity and respect in the international arena.