Former Deputy Speaker Raises Alarm Over Boko Haram Infiltration in Nigerian Army
Former Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Ahmed Idris Wase, has sounded a grave warning over alleged infiltration of the Nigerian Army by members of the Boko Haram terrorist group, describing it as a significant threat to the nation’s security architecture.
Speaking on Wednesday during a special plenary session convened to review the national security situation, Wase disclosed that the names of Boko Haram operatives were reportedly found on the Nigerian Army recruitment list. He stated that former Chairman of the House Committee on Defence, Muktar Betara, could corroborate the claim.
Flaws in Recruitment Processes
Akahi News gathered that Wase attributed this alarming development to systemic flaws in the country’s recruitment procedures, which he said have allowed individuals with criminal backgrounds to gain entry into sensitive security institutions.
“There has to be a thorough way of ensuring that when we are recruiting, those of us who are politicians should recommend people of good character and integrity. That’s the only way we can solve this problem,” Wase remarked.
“You find a criminal in the system, and before you know it, whatever you do, you cannot have the problem resolved. So we must change the system and way of our recruitment.”
He emphasised the importance of recommending people of integrity who meet established standards, warning that failing to do so undermines national security.
Personal Tragedy Fuels Concern
Wase revealed the personal toll of insecurity, noting that he lost both a brother and a cousin to terrorist attacks. He explained that the scale of criminal operations is so severe that his surviving younger brother even requested assistance in securing a transfer out of their community for safety.
The former deputy speaker linked the continued freedom of criminal groups to the infiltration of security institutions, suggesting that some individuals benefit from the chaos, allowing criminals to operate with impunity, including moving in convoys without fear of law enforcement.
Call for Holistic Reforms
During the session, Wase also highlighted broader structural issues affecting security, including the politicisation of indigeneship and citizenship, which he described as a divisive factor in national unity.
He drew attention to the scale of criminality in the country, noting that kidnapping has become routine, with about N5 billion reportedly paid as ransom within a year, and over 30,000 people killed in Boko Haram-related attacks over time.
Wase urged lawmakers to adopt a holistic and coordinated approach to national security, warning that the scale of insecurity is more dangerous than many realise and requires urgent intervention.
“Yes, as politicians, it’s good to recommend. But when you are recommending, please recommend people of integrity, people that will meet standards and ensure that they give the best access to our country,” he added.
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By Joseph Iyaji | Akahi News
Joseph Iyaji is a journalist, educator, and founder of Akahi G. International, Akahi Tutors, and Akahi News. Read more about him here.
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