A former Chief of Army Staff and Nigeria’s Ambassador to Benin Republic, Lt.-Gen. Tukur Buratai (Rtd), has denied planning to contest the 2023 presidential election despite campaign posters.
In a statement signed by the former spokesman of the Nigerian Army, Brig.-Gen. Sani Usman (Rtd), Buratai said he has never indicated interest, discussed with or directed anyone to campaign for him.
While urging on Nigerians to ignore such calls and posters, the former Army chief said he is not willing to go into partisan politics.
The statement reads: ”The attention of His Excellency, Lieutenant General Tukur Yusufu Buratai (rtd), Nigeria’s Ambassador to the Republic of Benin and former Chief of Army Staff, has been drawn to calls and dissemination of campaign posters calling on him to join partisan politics and contest for Presidential candidature of one of the political parties by some persons.
”However, it is essential to state that the Ambassador has never indicated interest, discussed with, or directed anyone on such matters.
”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.
”His Excellency wishes to reiterate his contentment and commitment to national service in his present capacity as Nigeria’s Ambassador to the Benin Republic.
”He remains loyal and eternally grateful to President Muhammadu Buhari for the opportunity to serve.
“He, however, wishes to thank all well-meaning persons, friends and well-wishers who showed concern over this development.”
Tracknews reports that if Buratai decides to contest he will be going against former Lagos governor, Bola Tinubu, former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, Senator Rochas Okorocha and others who have indicted interest to succeed Buhari.
