President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has urged the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) to take decisive and united action against the resurgence of military coups in the sub-region, warning that unconstitutional changes of government threaten democracy, regional stability, and economic growth.
Speaking through Nigeria’s delegation at a recent ECOWAS engagement, the President stressed that West Africa cannot afford a return to an era where armed takeovers undermine elected governments. He called on regional leaders to strengthen democratic institutions, enforce existing protocols, and apply firm sanctions where necessary to deter further coups.
Tinubu, who currently serves as Chairman of ECOWAS, reiterated Nigeria’s commitment to democratic governance and regional security cooperation. He noted that instability in one country often spills across borders, worsening insecurity, displacement, and economic hardship across the region.
However, even as the President positions himself as a defender of democratic order at the regional level, domestic debates over governance, security, and institutional integrity continue to intensify.
One of the issues generating widespread discussion is a viral video in which notorious bandit leader Bello Turji allegedly accused two former state governors of fueling insecurity in parts of northern Nigeria. While authorities have not officially confirmed the claims, the video has sparked renewed public scrutiny over the long-standing links between politics, armed groups, and insecurity.
Security analysts caution that such allegations, whether proven or not, reflect deep public distrust in political leadership and the failure to decisively address banditry, kidnapping, and armed violence. They argue that persistent insecurity has eroded confidence in government assurances and exposed systemic weaknesses in intelligence gathering, accountability, and law enforcement.
Adding to the growing controversy is the rapid promotion of Nuruddeen Alowonle Yusuf, Aide-de-Camp (ADC) to President Tinubu, within the Nigerian Army. In less than one year, Yusuf reportedly moved from the rank of Lieutenant Colonel to Brigadier General, a pace of advancement that has raised eyebrows within military and civilian circles.
According to available information, Yusuf was promoted to the rank of Colonel in January 2025. By December 11, 2025, the President approved what has been described as a rapid and special promotion elevating him to Brigadier General. No official explanation has been provided regarding the exceptional circumstances or service that warranted such accelerated progression.
Critics argue that the promotion deviates from established military norms and traditions, which emphasize seniority, merit, and structured career progression. Sources familiar with military procedures claim that the officer has reportedly surpassed many of his Regular Course (RC) mates, allegedly causing disquiet within the ranks of the Army.
Questions have also been raised about Yusuf’s continued role as ADC to the President. Traditionally, the position of ADC is occupied by officers within the ranks of Lieutenant Colonel or Colonel. Observers find it unusual that an officer promoted to the rank of Brigadier General would be retained in the ADC role rather than redeployed to a command or strategic position more consistent with his new rank.
“This is not just about one officer,” a security analyst noted. “It is about the signal such actions send to the institution. When promotions appear arbitrary or unexplained, it affects morale, discipline, and confidence in the system.”
Supporters of the President counter these criticisms by pointing out that Tinubu, as Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, possesses the constitutional authority to approve promotions and make personnel decisions. They argue that exceptional service, loyalty, or confidential contributions to national security may justify accelerated advancement, even if details are not publicly disclosed.
However, governance experts warn that excessive executive interference in professional military structures could weaken institutions over time. They stress that strong democracies are built not only on constitutional powers but also on restraint, transparency, and respect for established processes.
The controversy comes at a time when Nigerians are already grappling with widespread insecurity, economic pressure, and declining trust in public institutions. Many citizens view the military as one of the last pillars of national stability and believe its internal processes must remain credible and insulated from political influence.
As President Tinubu continues to advocate for constitutional order and democratic norms across West Africa, public attention remains firmly fixed on how those principles are applied at home. For many observers, the true test of leadership lies not only in regional diplomacy but in strengthening institutions, ensuring fairness, and rebuilding confidence within Nigeria’s own system of governance.
