A non- partisan pro-democracy group, Alliance for Protection of Democracy (APD), has hailed the Chief of Defence Staff, General Lucky Irabor, for dismissing the thought of any possibility of the military taking over power in Nigeria.
Blueprint reports that General Irabor had while fielding questions from journalists at the Armed Forces Remembrance Day celebration in Abuja, said that democracy has come to stay in the country.
General Irabor had also assured that the Armed Forces would work solidly behind the Nigerian Police Force, which is the lead security agency to ensure safe, free and fair general elections in 2023.
“Let me say, democracy has come to stay. I mean, government of the people, by the people and for the people in Nigeria has come to stay. That is an assurance, and then of course for the elections, I am sure you know, that the police are on the lead,” the CDS stated.
In a statement on Monday signed by its Secretary, Bimbo Salau, the Alliance for Protection of Democracy said the assurance coming from the topmost person in the Armed Forces of Nigeria is a big relief for those who are giving negative narratives on the outcome of the elections.
It added that the statement by the CDS will not be taken for granted because he (Gen. Irabor) kept to his words to degrade insurgency and has continued to carry men and officers of the Armed Forces along in ensuring their unalloyed loyalty to the constitution.
“This is not the first time the CDS has reiterated their support for the success of the elections. This is indeed commendable.
“This statement is a message to those who want to cause trouble that they will “land in hot soup” by daring the resolve of the CDS and military to ensure democracy is sustained in Nigeria.
“Nigerians must support the AFN and other security agencies to ensure a peaceful general elections. We can’t afford to add to the current security challenges.
“We in APD commend the CDS and the AFN for unwavering disposition towards sustenance of democracy in our country. Without doubt, Gen. Irabor is showing the way forward positively for his troops,” the statement read.
