Philip Agbese commends service chiefs, says sack calls plot to derail war on terror

Philip Agbese, deputy spokesperson of the house of representatives, has praised Christopher Musa, chief of defence staff (CDS), and other service chiefs for what he called tangible gains in Nigeria’s fight against insecurity.

Agbese, who represents Ado/Okpokwu/Ogbadibo federal constituency of Benue, said the current military leadership has revived counter-insurgency and counter-banditry operations in ways that are restoring public confidence.

He described recent calls for the removal of the service chiefs as “propaganda warfare” sponsored by terrorist networks to demoralise troops and mislead the public.

Speaking with journalists on Thursday at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja, the lawmaker urged Nigerians to resist narratives that weaken the morale of fighting forces.

“The service chiefs have given us clear evidence that Nigeria can win this war. The terrorists and their enablers understand this, so they resort to psychological warfare. Their demand for a change of leadership is not for Nigeria’s benefit — it is a survival tactic for terror,” Agbese said.

He praised Musa for his coordination of joint military operations and alignment of the different services under a unified counter-terrorism framework.

Agbese said the African defence chiefs’ summit held in Abuja in August was a landmark achievement that underscored Musa’s continental vision.

Agbese also commended Emmanuel Ogalla, chief of naval staff, for his fight against oil theft, illegal refining, and maritime crime.

He said the navy’s successes in securing pipelines and curbing smuggling have improved government revenue.

“The chief of naval staff has demonstrated uncommon commitment in safeguarding Nigeria’s maritime domain. His leadership in curbing pipeline vandalism, oil theft, and other maritime crimes has not only secured vital national assets but also restored confidence in our waters,” he said.

“By protecting the nation’s blue economy, the chief of naval staff has helped to stabilise government revenue at a time when Nigeria’s economic survival depends on it.”

The lawmaker commended Olufemi Oluyede, chief of army staff, for his leadership style which, according to him, has boosted morale among soldiers and weakened the confidence of insurgents and bandits.

“General Oluyede is not a desk officer; he is on the ground with the troops. His operational strategy has degraded terrorist enclaves in the north-east and weakened bandit networks in the north-west,” he said.

Agbese noted that Oluyede’s outreach to communities in conflict zones has enhanced intelligence-gathering and helped to prevent attacks.

“Security cannot be won by bullets alone; it requires the trust of the people. General Oluyede understands this and has fostered the kind of community collaboration that gives our troops a critical advantage,” he said.

Agbese, who is also a member of the Pan-African Parliament, said he would use his platform to push for deeper regional defence cooperation.

“I will present model laws at the forthcoming Pan-African Parliament plenary in Johannesburg. Nigeria must not only lead the fight with strength on the battlefield but also with intellect at the policy level,” he said.

On calls for the sack of the service chiefs, he urged Nigerians to reject what he called the “propaganda of despair”.

“Our service chiefs are among the finest officers in Africa today. They are respected globally for their professionalism and results. To call for their removal now is to sabotage the progress we are making. We cannot allow terrorists to set our agenda,” he said.

The UK-trained lawyer urged Nigerians to support the armed forces while holding leaders accountable through constructive engagements.

Ali Ndume, senator representing Borno south, had earlier asked President Bola Tinubu to ignore calls for the removal of the service chiefs.

“Those pushing for sack of the present crop of service chiefs have ulterior motive and they do not mean well for the present administration and Nigerians,” the senator said in a statement on Thursday.