A former Niger Delta militant leader, Osaanya Ossanya, has issued a stern warning to “failed politicians” plotting to discredit the efforts of the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, ahead of the 2031 presidential election. Ossanya, a beneficiary of the third phase of the Presidential Amnesty Programme, condemned these politicians, accusing them of undermining Ribadu’s achievements as Nigeria’s top security official.
In a statement released yesterday, Ossanya stated that these political figures and their collaborators were frustrated by Nigeria’s success in the fight against terrorism, with bandits, herdsmen, kidnappers, and other violent criminals being dealt significant blows. He said, “That is why they have resorted to blackmail and all manner of propaganda against Ribadu, who is doing a great job that we are all proud of.”
Ossanya further expressed disappointment that despite Ribadu’s significant contributions, including an improvement in Nigeria’s Global Terror Index score—from 8.065 in 2023 to 7.575, the best score in over eight years—he continues to be vilified. The former militant leader questioned why anyone would link Ribadu with the politics of 2031, given that the election is still six years away. He suggested that the aim of these attacks was to cause divisions within the government and distract Ribadu from his work in tackling Nigeria’s security challenges.
He urged those behind the media attacks to desist, emphasizing that Nigerians, particularly in the Niger Delta, are satisfied with Ribadu’s work and will continue to support him. “Nigerians, particularly the people of the Niger Delta, are happy with Ribadu and will stand by him in making the country free from terrorists,” Ossanya said.
Ossanya praised Ribadu for his efforts in combating terrorism, citing the elimination of key terror figures, which has improved safety on major routes, such as the Abuja/Kaduna road. While acknowledging that more work is needed, Ossanya called for continued support for Ribadu and the administration of President Bola Tinubu to create a safer Nigeria.
The youth leader highlighted Ribadu’s holistic approach to security, which goes beyond physical safety. He pointed out that the NSA has also focused on securing the nation’s food supply, including monitoring trucks carrying farm produce to ensure they are not diverted to neighboring countries. Ossanya also praised Ribadu’s efforts to end the smuggling of petrol, calling these achievements a testament to his intelligence, hard work, and commitment.
“Everything is now bearing fruit as we can see. Our National Security Adviser, one of the best we have ever had and one of the finest and most intelligent security experts to have come from our land, is on top of his game,” Ossanya added. He condemned the ongoing media attacks on Ribadu, calling them a distraction and an attempt to destabilize the country. He stressed that Ribadu’s comprehensive approach to national security, which includes efforts to prevent smuggling and protect the nation’s resources, deserves commendation.
