The British government has warned against a non-democratic change of government in Nigeria, amid speculations about military coup as concerns grow ove
The British government has warned against a non-democratic change of government in Nigeria, amid speculations about military coup as concerns grow over President Muhammadu Buhari’s health as the British government believes that democracy is actually critical in Nigeria, the United Kingdom High Commissioner to Nigeria, Paul Arkwright said.
“There are elections. If you’re not happy with your leaders then you should change your leadership through the democratic process and through elections.” His comments came a day after the Chief of Army Staff, Tukur Buratai, warned of undue interactions between Army officers and politicians, as concerns mount over Mr. Buhari’s health.
The president traveled to London last week for medical treatment for an undisclosed ailment, just over a month after returning to Nigeria from an extended medical leave abroad. “Any officer or soldier of Nigerian Army found to be hobnobbing with such elements or engaged in unprofessional conducts such as politicking would have himself or herself to blame,” the army said in a statement signed by its spokesperson, Sani Usman, a brigadier general.
Although the statement cited political reasons as grounds for the purported discussions between some military officers and politicians, it was silent on the specific discussions that took place or the individuals involved. Earlier in the week, military sources said that the Army leadership was unsettled by growing speculation of possible coup de’tat by officers within its rank and file. It further learnt that Buratai, a lieutenant general, had raised the issue with Acting President Yemi Osinbajo and promised to nip it in the bud.
