By Nkechi Eze
Former Chief of Army Staff, Tukur Yusuf Buratai, has clarified that recent remarks by the Chief of Defence Staff regarding collaborators aiding insurgents were purely operational in nature and not politically motivated.
Buratai made this known during an interview with Seun Okinbaloye on Channels Television, amid growing public debate and widespread interpretations surrounding the Defence Chief’s statement.
According to the former army chief, the comments by the CDS were made within the context of ongoing military operations in Nigeria’s North-East, where troops continue to confront insurgent groups such as Boko Haram.
He explained that the reference to “collaborators” strictly applies to individuals who provide operational support to insurgents, including intelligence gathering, logistics, and supply chains, rather than any form of political actors.
“Insurgency relies heavily on support networks within communities. These are the collaborators being referred to, not politicians,” Buratai stated during the interview.
He warned that misinterpretation of such statements could generate unnecessary tension and divert attention from the real security challenges confronting the country.
Buratai emphasized that identifying and dismantling these support networks remains a critical element of Nigeria’s counter-insurgency strategy. He also called for a more informed understanding of military communications by both the public and the media.
Highlighting the complexity of insurgency, the former army chief stressed that addressing the threat requires coordinated efforts among the military, intelligence agencies, and civilian populations. He added that accurate and responsible reporting plays a vital role in supporting national security operations.
