Mr Femi Adesina, a Senior Special Adviser on Media and Publicity to President Buhari has commended the Nigerian Army and the military for quick response to news report alleging that some military officers met with a Presidential candidate with the aim of disrupting the general elections and setting the country on fire.
According to Mr Adesina, "The fact that they can respond so quickly when we raise concerns is encouraging and proves that they are not only responsive and responsible but that we are also on the same page when it comes to civic duties, the rule of law, civilian rule, an open society and democracy.
The statement reads:
I am glad that the Nigerian Army has cleared the air and denied reports about a meeting between some officers and Atiku Abubakar.
I am also happy that the newspaper report I referred to has proved to be FALSE.
As I said, "if true", it would have been "troubling".
I commend the Military for their commitment to democracy.
The fact that they can respond so quickly when we raise concerns is encouraging and proves that they are not only responsive and responsible but that we are also on the same page when it comes to civic duties, the rule of law, civilian rule, an open society and democracy.
For the record, at no time did I accuse the Nigerian Army or Military High Command as an institution of plotting a coup or meeting with politicians but rather raised questions about some rogue officers who, according to media rports, allegedly met with Atiku.
Thankfully those reports have been debunked and proved to be unfounded.
There is no gain saying that have implicit confidence in the military and its High Command as an institution and I trust in their commitment to democracy which has been confirmed, tried, tested and proved over the last 24 years since the return of civilian rule in 1999.
I would encourage them to continue to be watchful and alert and to continue their good work by supporting, protecting and sustaining our democracy.