Buratai distances himself from campaign posters declaring him a presidential candidate

FORMER chief of army staff General Tukur Buratai has distanced himself from suggestions that he is considering running for Nigeria's presidency next year pointing out that he is happy with his current job as the ambassador to the Republic of Benin.

Last year, General Buratai was retired as the head of the Nigerian Army and almost immediately, he was named as the country's ambassador to neighbouring Benin Republic. At the time, it was suggested that he was appointed to provide him with diplomatic immunity to avoid prosecution for any atrocities committed by the Nigerian Army under his watch.

Over the last week, a group known as the All Progressives Congress Door To Door Campaign Forum urged General Buratai to run for the presidency. However, pointing out that he is happy with his current position, General Buratai, distanced himself from such calls and the presidential campaign posters of him making rounds on social media.

In addition, General Buratai said that he has never indicated an interest or discussed with any group about running for the presidency in 2023. Also, former Nigerian Army spokesman, Retired General Sani Kukasheka, added that General Buratai was not behind the group or those campaigning for him.

General Kukasheka said: “Nigeria’s ambassador is contented with his present work and committed to national service as an envoy. Therefore, such calls and posters should be discountenanced as they did not emanate from him, nor is he interested in them.

“It is entirely the handiwork of some people for reasons best known to them. He remains loyal and eternally grateful to President Muhammadu Buhari for the opportunity to serve.”