National Security Must be Above Partisan politics – Buratai
… tasks public officers to enhance accountability and transparency
By Lawrence Audu
In a bid to restore public confidence and rectify the negative perception surrounding governance, former Chief of Army Staff and former Nigeria’s Ambassador to the Republic of Benin, Lieutenant General Tukur Buratai, has emphasized the urgent need for public servants to prioritize accountability and transparency at all times. He reiterated the criticality of prioritizing national security above partisan considerations. Buratai urged politicians to exercise caution and refrain from actions that could potentially lead to the breakdown of law and order.
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Ambassador Buratai made this call, Friday, during the esteemed Second Stanza 2023 Public Service Lecture, organized by the University of Ibadan Alumni Association, worldwide, held in Ibadan.
Delivering his paper entitled “Public Service and the Imperative for National Security in Nigeria,” General Buratai shed light on the prevailing discontent among Nigerians regarding politics and democratic governance. The citizens of Nigeria perceive politicians and the political system as a failed mechanism for effective governance, fostering an environment of disillusionment and dissatisfaction.
Recognizing the grave consequences of compromising national security,
Buratai stressed the need for political leaders to rise above partisan interests and prioritize the stability and safety of the nation. He urged politicians to refrain from engaging in actions or rhetoric that could incite violence, create divisions, or undermine the rule of law. By avoiding such actions, political leaders can contribute to the maintenance of peace, harmony, and societal well-being.
Buratai emphasized that national security should be a unifying factor that transcends political affiliations. It is imperative for politicians to recognize the far-reaching implications of their decisions on the security and well-being of the nation as a whole. By demonstrating a commitment to national security, politicians can inspire public confidence and foster a sense of unity among citizens.
Furthermore, Buratai called upon politicians to actively collaborate with relevant security agencies in order to address emerging security challenges. This entails establishing effective communication channels and sharing vital information that can aid in the prevention and mitigation of security threats. By prioritizing cooperation and coordination, politicians can work together with security agencies to develop robust strategies for safeguarding the nation.
Another key issue highlighted by General Buratai was the longstanding prevalence of corruption within Nigeria’s political sphere. This deeply rooted problem has not only eroded public trust but also hindered the nation’s development. Instances of misappropriation of public funds, bribery, and embezzlement have become distressingly common, diverting crucial resources away from essential services and exacerbating citizens’ disillusionment.
To address these challenges and restore public faith, Lieutenant General Buratai urged public servants to prioritize the provision of basic public services and tackle pressing societal issues. He emphasized that accountability, sacrifice, and dedication should be the guiding principles for all public servants.
By enhancing accountability, public servants can foster an environment of trust and confidence among the citizenry. This entails maintaining a high level of transparency in decision-making processes, ensuring that public resources are utilized judiciously, and taking responsibility for actions and outcomes.
Through these measures, public servants can help rebuild the trust that has been eroded over time.
Moreover, General Buratai stressed the importance of sacrifice and dedication in public service. Public servants must be willing to put the needs of the nation and its citizens above personal interests.
This requires a selfless commitment to the welfare and progress of the society, as well as a willingness to go above and beyond the call of duty.
The imperative for accountability and transparency in the public service cannot be overstated. Lieutenant General Tukur Buratai’s call to action serves as a rallying cry for public servants to rise to the occasion and address the prevailing challenges faced by the nation. By upholding these principles, public servants can play a pivotal role in rebuilding public confidence, fostering national security, and paving the way for a more prosperous and resilient Nigeria.
