CSAI Rejects Claims Linking CDS Oluyede to Political Activities

By Al-Amin Ciroma

The Centre for Strategic and Alternative Information (CSAI) has dismissed claims suggesting that the Chief of Defence Staff, General Olufemi Oluyede, is involved in political activities or partisan manoeuvring.

The organisation described the allegations as false and misleading, urging Nigerians to disregard narratives capable of undermining confidence in the leadership of the Armed Forces.

The controversy, our correspondent gathered, comes amid heightened political activity ahead of the 2027 general elections, a period in which speculation over the alleged involvement of security chiefs in political affairs has increasingly surfaced in public discourse.

CSAI maintained that attempts to associate the Chief of Defence Staff with partisan politics were without credible foundation and should not be allowed to distract the military leadership from its constitutional responsibilities.

General Oluyede, who heads the nation’s military establishment, has remained focused on the professional responsibilities of the Armed Forces, particularly the ongoing campaign against terrorism, banditry and other security threats confronting the country.

According to the report, the clarification is also significant given the sensitivity surrounding the political neutrality of Nigeria’s military leadership. The Armed Forces are constitutionally expected to remain professional and apolitical while providing security for the nation and supporting democratic institutions.

Recent public statements from military leadership have continued to emphasise national security, troop welfare and the need to sustain pressure on criminal and terrorist groups.

Against this backdrop, CSAI urged members of the public and media organisations to exercise caution when circulating allegations concerning senior military officers, particularly claims that could create unnecessary tension or damage public trust in national security institutions.

The organisation’s position effectively places the burden of proof on those promoting the allegations, stressing the need for credible evidence before associating serving military commanders with partisan political activities.

As Nigeria moves closer to the 2027 elections, the question of military neutrality is expected to remain a major subject of public interest. Maintaining confidence in the professionalism and political neutrality of the Armed Forces will therefore remain critical to the country’s democratic stability.

For now, CSAI’s message is clear: claims linking General Oluyede to political activities should be treated as unfounded.