Buratai speaks on opposition to ex-service chiefs’ appointment as ambassadors

Tukur Buratai

The immediate past chief of army staff Lt Gen Tukur Buratai (retd) says he owes no one explanation over his recent appointment as one of the non-career ambassadors.

President Muhammadu Buhari recently appointed Buratai and other immediate past service chiefs as non-career ambassadors, drawing the ire of many including the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

The PDP in a statement by its spokesman Kola Ologbondiyan described the appointment as a plot to shield the ex-service chiefs from investigation over the “killing of innocent Nigerians and crimes against humanity” under their watch.

However, speaking with journalists after a special gala night organised by members of the 29th regular course association of the Nigerian Defense Academy in Abuja over the weekend, Buratai said he would not respond to the PDP’s statement, insisting he was not a politician.

“It’s an honourable retirement and also an honourable appointment,” he said. “I’m not a politician, so I have no word for the opposition. I have done well.”

He added: “I am happy that in July last year, my officers at the Army headquarters compiled a compendium of my achievements.

“In fact, I can’t even remember all the projects that we have executed. Is it in term of infrastructure? Is it in term of capacity building? Is it in terms of training?

“Since I was appointed, there was never a dull moment in terms of training.”