The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to openly explain the reasons behind what it described as a “sudden and puzzling overhaul” of Nigeria’s military leadership.
The opposition party’s reaction follows the President’s recent decision to dismiss and replace nearly all the Service Chiefs he appointed almost two years ago, which has sparked widespread debate and speculation nationwide.
In a statement released by the party’s National Publicity Secretary, Mallam Bolaji Abdullahi, the ADC said the timing of the changes was questionable, especially given the recent circulation of rumours suggesting an attempted coup.
“While the President has every constitutional right to reorganise the military structure, Nigerians deserve to know why this decision came at such a sensitive time,” Abdullahi said.
“The government’s response to the alleged coup reports was vague at best and has only deepened public confusion.”
The ADC noted that many of the affected officers had barely completed two years in their positions, with some recently promoted to top ranks.
The party cautioned that removing them abruptly could destabilise the military’s chain of command and create unnecessary uncertainty within the armed forces.
According to Abdullahi, “Such a sweeping change, without a clear explanation, risks undermining morale and confidence in the military at a time when Nigeria is facing serious security challenges.”
The statement also accused the Tinubu administration of losing focus on key national security concerns, citing the continued rise of banditry, terrorism, and communal violence across several regions.
“The government owes citizens a full and honest disclosure about what truly informed this decision,” the party added.
“Transparency is essential to maintaining public trust and ensuring that Nigeria’s democracy remains strong.”
The ADC warned that abrupt military changes could fuel speculation and conspiracy theories, particularly in a climate already tense with insecurity.
“As an opposition party, our position is not about politics but about national stability,” Abdullahi said.
“Nigeria cannot afford any internal cracks within its defence system when the entire Sahel region remains volatile.
"What is happening in Chad and Niger should remind us all of the dangers of political complacency.”
The party therefore urged President Tinubu to address the nation directly, clarify the motives behind the shake-up, and reassure Nigerians that the country’s democratic order is not under threat.
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