Shocker In Aso Rock: Tinubu Sends Unexpected Letter To Senate Over Army Chief

In a move that has left many stunned, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has formally sent a letter to the Senate, seeking the confirmation of Lieutenant General Olufemi Olatubosun Oluyede as the substantive Chief of Army Staff.

This development, which came as a surprise to political watchers and military analysts, is generating ripples across the country.

The shocker lies in the suddenness of the decision and the speed with which Tinubu acted on Oluyede’s appointment, following the unfortunate demise of Lieutenant General Taoreed Lagbaja.

Lagbaja, who had been a trusted and capable leader, fell ill in late October and passed away on November 5, leaving the position vacant. While Oluyede had been named Acting Chief of Army Staff shortly after Lagbaja’s incapacitation, many assumed Tinubu would take more time to evaluate other candidates before making a substantive appointment. However, the President’s swift action has upended expectations.

The letter, addressed to Senate President Godswill Akpabio, requests the upper chamber’s urgent confirmation of Oluyede in line with Section 218(2) of the 1999 Constitution (as amended) and Section 18(1) of the Armed Forces Act.

Tinubu also sent a similar communication to the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abbas.

Observers were caught off guard by this move, given that such critical military decisions are often preceded by extensive consultations and behind-the-scenes politicking.

What makes this letter particularly unexpected is the timing. Tinubu acted less than a month after Oluyede assumed the role of Acting Chief of Army Staff. Many had speculated that Tinubu might leave the position open for an extended period or consider other senior officers before finalizing his choice.

Instead, Tinubu has expressed full confidence in Oluyede’s leadership, describing him as a leader with “professional integrity” and “experience” capable of steering the Nigerian Army toward national security and stability.

Oluyede’s record speaks volumes about his qualifications. A member of the 39th Regular Course of the Nigerian Defence Academy, he has risen through the ranks since being commissioned as a Second Lieutenant in 1992.

His career has been marked by a series of command roles, including serving as the 56th Commander of the elite Infantry Corps and commanding the 27 Task Force Brigade in the North East during Operation HADIN KAI.

His extensive experience in both domestic and international military operations, coupled with his numerous accolades, positions him as a capable and tested leader.

Still, critics argue that the letter signals Tinubu’s intent to consolidate military loyalty by appointing a close ally at a time when national security challenges remain high. While some view this as a pragmatic move, others believe it bypasses the opportunity for a broader debate on the future of military leadership in Nigeria.

As the Senate prepares to deliberate on Oluyede’s confirmation, all eyes remain on Aso Rock. Tinubu’s unexpected letter has not only set a new course for the Nigerian Army but also reignited discussions about transparency and accountability in high-level military appointments. For now, the nation watches and waits.