Service chiefs have overstayed, says Shekarau

A former Kano State governor, Senator Ibrahim Shekarau, on Thursday said the service chiefs had overstayed in service, explaining why they should be replaced.

Several prominent people and groups have called for their removal in the wake of security challenges across the country.

The Senate has for a second time also urged the presidency to replace the service chiefs, after the latest killing of dozens of rice farmers in Zabaramari, Borno State.

Shekarau, also a former education minister, said on Channels TV Sunrise Daily that the rule of law in government service outweighed the decision whether the service chiefs were performing or not.

“There is a point the presidency is missing. Before you get to the question of performing or not performing, there is the question of rule of law.

“The military is governed by the scheme of service. There are conditions when to leave—you either attain age 60 or put in service for 35 years,” he said.

“None of them [the service chiefs] has less than 35. The Chief of Defence Staff has put in 39 years of services. All except the chief of defence staff who is 58, are more than 60.

“Chief of Air staff has put in 37; Chief of Naval Staff has put in 41 years.

“What we are saying is even if Mr President has found them indispensable, allow them to retire just like in public service, as the rule specifies, and you can hire them as minister of defence, adviser on defence, NSA, whatever.

“There is a difference from being within the service period and the President can keep you as long as he so wishes.”