Idris Wase, former deputy speaker of the house of representatives, says past recruitment exercises for Nigeria’s armed forces uncovered Boko Haram members, armed robbers, and other criminals among shortlisted candidates.
Speaking during a special plenary session convened to review the country’s worsening security situation, Wase said Muktar Betara, former chairman of the house committee on defence, could confirm the disturbing findings.
My brother, former chairman of defence, and my very good friend Betara will bear me witness that we have moments in time when, in the process of recruitment, Boko Haram were found on the army list,” Wase said. “Armed robbers and other criminals were also found in the list of the army and police.”
He urged politicians to be more responsible when recommending candidates for security roles. “There has to be a thorough way of ensuring that, when we are recruiting, those of us who are politicians should recommend people of good character and integrity; that’s the only way we can solve this problem,” he said.
“You find a criminal in the system, and before you know it, whatever you do, you cannot have the problem resolved, so we must change the system and the manner of our recruitment. Yes, as politicians, it’s good to recommend; this is what we are here for. But when you are recommending, please recommend people of integrity, people who will meet standards and ensure that they give the best access to our country.”
Wase said insecurity had reached such a worrying level that even his younger brother pleaded for help to relocate from their community.
He also called for a review of the presidential directive withdrawing police officers from VIP protection duties, arguing that categories must be clearly defined to avoid exposing key officials to unnecessary danger.
