Nigeria Still in the Grip of the Military After 26 Years of Democracy — Aggreh Raises Alarm

By Henry Ubus

Chief Solomon Rugbare Aggreh Esq., a legal practitioner and public affairs analyst from Udu, Delta State, has raised serious concerns over what he described as the growing overreach of the Nigerian military in civil governance, warning that democracy in the country remains under subtle military control even after 26 years of democratic rule.

In a strongly worded statement issued from Udu, Chief Aggreh cited recent incidents that suggest the military’s increasing interference in civilian affairs, particularly the reported confrontation between a military officer and the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), which prevented the Minister from carrying out his legitimate duty.

According to him, “While many Nigerians are busy praising the said officer, I see it as a dangerous precedent. If the FCT Minister, who is the Governor of the FCT, can be stopped from performing his official duty, then no one else is safe. It simply means the military is in control of the FCT.”

Chief Aggreh also referenced the tragic Okuama killings in Ughelli South Local Government Area of Delta State, where unconfirmed reports indicated that the Governor of Delta State was denied entry into the troubled community by military personnel under the guise of security concerns.

“The Governor is the Chief Security Officer of the State. What kind of security concern can prevent him from assessing the situation in his own state? If that report was true, then it is further proof that the military are in charge,” he said.

Recalling his personal experience during the height of the Aladja/Ogbe-Ijoh crisis, Chief Aggreh lamented how military personnel stormed Aladja Community in a commando-style operation that resulted in the killing of about eight unarmed civilians.

“One of those killed fell before my very eyes; I narrowly escaped by the grace of God,” he recounted. “After those killings, nothing happened. It was clear that the military were in charge.”

Chief Aggreh further reminded Nigerians of the rumoured coup attempt that spread across the country a few months ago, describing it as a frightening reminder that democracy must be defended at all costs. “We thank God it only turned out to be a rumour,” he added.

He called on the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, the Governors of the 36 States, the National Assembly, the State Houses of Assembly, and the Judiciary to rise up and defend Nigeria’s democracy, warning that “enough should be enough.”

“The military must be confined strictly to their constitutional duties. They have gradually taken over the functions of the Nigeria Police in many aspects, handling civil matters that should ordinarily be reported to the police,” Aggreh stated.

He concluded by expressing his unwavering faith in Nigeria’s democracy, praying that it continues to thrive despite the current challenges.

“Democracy must work, and I pray it continues to work,” he said.