Former Minister of Communications, Major General Tajudeen Olanrewaju, has emphasized the gravity of the allegations made by ex-militant leader Mujahid Asari Dokubo, accusing the Nigerian Army, Navy, and certain influential individuals of being responsible for 99% of oil theft in the country. Major General Olanrewaju believes that these allegations pose a significant breach of national security.
Dokubo made these claims following a meeting with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu at the State House in Abuja, where he asserted that the President had pledged to investigate the involvement of notorious naval commanders in large-scale oil bunkering and take decisive action against those responsible.
Expressing his views on Saturday, Major General Olanrewaju called on the Nigeria Police and the Department of State Services (DSS) to summon Dokubo and compel him to divulge all relevant information, in order to clarify the records. The former General Officer Commanding (GOC) of the Third Armoured Division of the Nigerian Army expressed concern that the allegations appeared to be an attempt to undermine the military and popularize militancy among the public.
Major General Olanrewaju further emphasized the need for thorough investigation and recommended the establishment of a commission of inquiry to address these serious accusations. He stressed that Dokubo should present any available evidence to the security services and should not be allowed to act as both the complainant and the judge.
The former minister also highlighted the potential repercussions of Dokubo’s statements, which he believes denigrate the entire security services and undermine their credibility. He called on President Buhari, as the Commander-in-Chief, to take appropriate action in response to these allegations.
Major General Olanrewaju pointed out the inconsistency in Dokubo’s ability to carry arms and boast of success against insecurity, while simultaneously discrediting the military’s claims to the same achievements. He urged caution in dealing with Dokubo, asserting that his accusations should not be taken lightly.
Major General Olanrewaju stressed the importance of a thorough investigation to address Dokubo’s serious allegations and safeguard the reputation of the Armed Forces. He also highlighted the need for consistency in the government’s approach to security outfits, particularly concerning armed individuals like Dokubo and his associates.
