Odua Group Faults Call For Ribadu’s Removal

The Odua People’s Assembly (OPA) has defended the national security adviser (NSA), Malam Nuhu Ribadu, describing recent criticisms by General Ishola Williams (rtd) as unwarranted.

The group said Williams’ call for the removal of the NSA lacked factual basis and could undermine ongoing efforts to address Nigeria’s security challenges.

Williams had, during an interview on Channels Television on March 15, 2026, called for a major overhaul of the country’s security leadership, including the removal of Ribadu.

In a reaction to Willian’s request, the group’s chairman, Richard Olatunji Kayode, said the retired general’s remarks were driven by emotion rather than evidence and risked promoting what it described as a culture of “permanent pessimism.”

According to him, such comments could weaken public confidence in security institutions and dampen the morale of personnel working to secure the country.

Kayode said, “However, his assertions lack factual support and are driven more by emotional manipulation than by evidence-based reasoning. Such rhetoric contributes to a culture of “permanent pessimism” that undermines the morale of our security forces and the integrity of our national institutions…

“This approach not only tarnishes the reputation of dedicated public servants but also distracts from the pressing need for constructive dialogue and collaborative solutions.

“It is essential to recognise that true criticism should serve as a catalyst for improvement, offering actionable alternatives rather than merely identifying faults. General Williams’ call for the sacking of the NSA fails to present any constructive solutions to the complex security challenges we face.

“Instead, it perpetuates a cycle of blame without contributing to a meaningful discourse on how to enhance our national security framework. Such irresponsible commentary can have far-reaching consequences,” he said.