Buratai: CDS remarks on insurgent ‘Collaborators’ were misunderstood

From Noah Ebije, Kaduna

Former Chief of Army Staff, Tukur Yusuf Buratai, has clarified that recent comments by the Chief of Defence Staff on individuals collaborating with insurgents were widely misinterpreted, emphasizing that the remarks were strictly operational in nature and not politically motivated.

Speaking during an interview with Seun Okinbaloye on Channels Television, Buratai addressed the growing public debate surrounding the statement.

He explained that the Defence Chief’s remarks were made within the context of ongoing military operations in Nigeria’s North-East, where troops continue to confront insurgent groups such as Boko Haram.

According to Buratai, the term “collaborators” refers specifically to individuals who provide operational support to insurgents, including intelligence, logistics, and supplies, not political actors.

“Insurgency relies heavily on support networks within communities. These are the collaborators being referred to, not politicians,” he said.

Buratai cautioned that misinterpreting such statements could fuel unnecessary tension and divert attention from the country’s pressing security challenges.

He stressed that identifying and dismantling these support networks remains a critical component of Nigeria’s counter-insurgency strategy.

He also called for improved public understanding of military communications, noting that accurate reporting plays a vital role in supporting national security efforts.

Highlighting the complexity of insurgency, Buratai added that addressing the threat requires coordinated action among the military, intelligence agencies, and civilian populations.