A former Chief of Army Staff, Lt-Gen. Tukur Buratai (rtd.), has cautioned the United States (US) government against releasing documents allegedly linked to past drug-trafficking investigations involving President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, warning that such a move could undermine Nigeria’s sovereignty and influence the 2027 general election.
Buratai made the remarks in a paper titled, “Nigeria First: A Case for Protecting National Sovereignty and Dignity – A Patriotic and Non-Partisan Perspective,” which was published on his verified Facebook page.
In the paper, the retired Army chief argued that the issue extends beyond President Tinubu as an individual, stressing that it carries broader implications for Nigeria’s international reputation, political stability and national sovereignty.
“This is not merely about Bola Tinubu; it is about 250 million Nigerians whose national pride, economic prospects, and global standing hang in the balance,” he stated.
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Buratai questioned the timing of renewed attention on allegations dating back more than three decades, asking why an issue from about 33 years ago was resurfacing at a politically sensitive period.
He maintained that any allegations involving Nigerian leaders should be addressed through the country’s democratic and judicial institutions, rather than becoming the subject of external interference.
According to him, “releasing the documents before the 2027 general election could create an avenue for foreign influence over Nigeria’s electoral process and weaken the nation’s political independence”.
The former Chief of Army Staff, however, clarified that his position should not be interpreted as an attempt to shield public officials from scrutiny or accountability.
Instead, he insisted that allegations against leaders can still be investigated through lawful processes, while preserving the dignity of both the office and the country.
Buratai maintained that safeguarding Nigeria’s sovereignty remains essential, particularly at a time when the nation is preparing for another electoral cycle.
