Nigerian journalist writes on who the real Tukur Buratai is ...

A Nigerian journalist who simply goes by the name, Abdulkareem, and has some details of the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt-Gen Tukur Buratai, has revealed what he knows about the army chief.

Buratai had been accused of corruption with some Nigerians saying that he was being shielded by the administration of President Muhammadu Buhari. 

Abdulkareem was part of the team that followed Buratai to the core of the north-eastern part of the country ravaged by insurgents. Some states most affected in the region include Borno, Adamawa and Buratai, months ago, travelled to a village where he passed the night with soldiers.

Abulkareem’s comment which was posted on the Facebook wall of the Nigerian Army, generated many reactions from Nigerians. 

The journalist wrote: “Who am I to defend the person of General Buratai. It is even a waste of time trying to. Am not saying that he is saintly..no. But his personality, his professionalism, and unwavered patriotism stands him out amongst the crowd…that alone upsets enemies of peace, progress in this raped country.

“But on 9th of September, 2015 when the COAS tore through subdued attacks by Boko Haram and made it to Gamboru-Ngala, the border area of Borno where he supervised the destruction of Boko Haram flags/illegal insignia and hoisted back the Nigerian flag on Nigerian territory, that day I saw a crack general of the Nigerian Army.

“And when he chose to pass the night there under an unfriendly weather condition, while Boko Haram insurgents snuck around to plant land mine on our return path, that day I witnessed the true display of courage…And when General Buratai decided to have a one-on-one with all corporal-below soldiers during which he personally listened to their demands/challenges and even took field advice on how the asymmetric war could be executed effectively, that day I saw humility and true mark of leadership…and even when the general defied the Boko Haram terrorists to order a burn fire in dead of the night…I saw jubilant troops who screamed in excitement and hailed one Army General that had made them feel important in a very long time.

“Honestly these are the few things I know of the many good accolades of this gentleman and soldier…Good things, sometimes, don’t get instant accolades especially in a clime where badness is almost a virtue…I rest my boring case.”

[naij.com]