Reported by: L . Imafidon | Edited by: Henry Owen
Nigerians are expressing growing anger and disbelief after remarks attributed to Major General Abdulmalik Blu, the General Officer Commanding (GOC) of the 7 Division of the Nigerian Army. In a statement that many citizens find astonishingly soft and disturbingly apologetic, Gen. Blu urged Boko Haram insurgents to lay down their arms and reassured them that they could be accepted back into society—even to the extent of aspiring to become Nigeria’s president one day.
The comments, which have gone viral on social media and dominated public discourse, have sparked a wave of criticism. Citizens argue that such remarks reveal a dangerous display of weakness and fear at a time when Nigeria is battling a deadly insurgency that has claimed thousands of lives, kidnapped women and girls, and subjected many to rape and other atrocities.
Many Nigerians believe that instead of speaking as a military leader, Gen. Blu’s words resemble those of a preacher seeking converts rather than a commander ready to confront the country’s enemies. Critics say that a General, trained and funded by the Nigerian taxpayers, should embody strength, discipline, and unwavering resolve—not soft words of reconciliation that may embolden terrorists.
Public sentiment highlights a common frustration: Nigeria has invested decades in training its military personnel to fight insurgency, not to promote forgiveness or political reconciliation with terrorists who have murdered civilians, abducted schoolchildren, raped women, and destroyed communities. Nigerians expect their military leaders to be fighters and protectors, not advocates of peace with those who have declared war on the nation.
Security analysts warn that Gen. Blu’s statement reflects poor judgment and a troubling lack of confidence. To many, it signals that the military hierarchy might be struggling with morale and strategic direction. Instead of projecting strength, his words suggest a retreat, making it appear as though the military is overwhelmed and resorting to emotional appeals rather than decisive action.
How can terrorists—who have killed, kidnapped, and raped women and girls—be convinced to lay down their arms and surrender, when the country is still suffering from their atrocities? The nation relies on the military to fight this evil, to bring justice, and to protect its citizens. Yet, a military general who turns himself into a preacher instead of a fierce leader is deeply worrisome. It raises questions about his true commitment and capability to lead troops against the insurgents.
For a military leader responsible for commanding troops in active combat zones, such rhetoric is viewed as not only inappropriate but also damaging to national morale. The uniform he wears symbolizes sacrifice, strength, and authority—values that many Nigerians believe should be upheld, especially in the face of violent extremism.
The public outcry has led to calls for disciplinary action against Gen. Blu. Many believe his remarks undermine the integrity of the Nigerian Army and dishonor the memory of soldiers who paid the ultimate price fighting insurgents. Some citizens and security experts argue that his comments are unbecoming of a general and that he should be relieved of command, stripped of honors, and held accountable for what they see as a gross deviation from his constitutional duty.
This controversy has reignited the national debate about the kind of leadership Nigeria’s military needs. Nigerians are demanding leaders who embody courage and resilience, not those who appear to be negotiating with killers. Many see Gen. Blu’s words as emblematic of a flawed counterterrorism approach—one that favors bending and appeasement over confronting and defeating the terrorists.
As criticism intensifies, the Defence Headquarters has yet to issue an official response. But the message from the public is clear: Nigeria demands a military leadership that demonstrates strength, clarity, and unwavering commitment—especially in these challenging times. Nigerians continue to wait, not for another sermon, but for tangible displays of military resolve that will restore confidence and security across the nation.
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