Former Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Tukur Buratai (rtd.), has expressed concern over the recent verbal exchange between the FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, and a military officer. Buratai said such public confrontation could affect national security and undermine the authority of the armed forces.

Buratai stressed that soldiers play a key role in maintaining national stability, and any open conflict with political leaders sends a wrong message to the public. According to him, leadership and security institutions must work together, not against each other, especially in a tense security environment like Nigeria’s.

He added that respect for military discipline is important and urged government officials to handle disagreements with the armed forces professionally and quietly. Buratai advised leaders to avoid statements or actions that could weaken the morale of security personnel or create public confusion about military authority.

He called for unity, mutual respect, and cooperation between political officeholders and the armed forces to protect national peace and security.