Call to arms: Danjuma did not speak like an elder, says Yakassai

Tanko Yakassai, an elder statesman, says the call to arms of Theophilus Danjuma, former chief of army staff, is not a reflection of the utterances of someone of his age.

Danjuma has drawn criticism and commendation alike for saying on Saturday that the armed forces of Nigeria are “not neutral” and are in collusion with armed bandits to carry out ethnic cleansing.

He made the statement during his convocation speech at Taraba State University where he urged Nigerians not to rely on the armed forces for protection, spurring them on to defend themselves.

Reacting, Yakassai described Danjuma’s statement as an invitation to conflict, saying “endless anarchy” could be its resultant effect.

According to Guardian, Yakassai said: “What Gen. Danjuma said is hardly the words of elders. Elders are known for trying to calm down tension and not to invite conflict.

“If the two warring groups decide to defend themselves, it means there would be endless anarchy and this is not what we want in this 20th century.

“The military remains his constituency even though he left service over 40 years ago. He is still respected among the rank and file. He has the opportunity to meet the highest echelon of the army to talk to them and advise them. This is a better option than calling for anarchy.”

He said Danjuma may have spoken in such a manner possibly because his advice to President Muhammadu Buhari on the issue of herdsmen-farmers clashes fell on deaf ears.