We can’t find weapons we gave Buratai, other ex service chiefs billions to buy — NSA

The National Security Adviser (NSA), Babagana Munguno, said the immediate past service chiefs could not account for the money approved to purchase weapons during their tenure.

Munguno, a retired major-general, in an interview with BBC Hausa, Friday disclosed that the new service chiefs could not find any newly acquired weapons and other military hardware when they assumed office.

Billions of naira was approved by President Muhammadu Buhari under the tenure of ex-service chiefs, CDS; Abayomi Olonisakin, Army Chief, Tukur Buratai, Ibok-Ete Ekwe Ibas, Naval Chief and Sadique Abubakar, Air Chief over the years to purchase weapons.

In 2018 alone, the president approved the sum of $1 billion dollars to enable them tackle the rising insecurity challenges ranging from Boko Haram insurgency, banditry, kidnapping activities amongst others.

“Nobody knows what they used the money for, but, I assure you the president is going to probe all the money given to them during their tenure,” Monguno alleged.

“Maybe the weapons are on their way from America. I cannot disclose further on the matter since a proper investigation has not been conducted.”

The NSA further disclosed that lack of proper weapons is what is causing the military and other relevant security agencies a major set-back in tackling security challenges across the country.

“Most Nigerians think we are not putting in efforts to curb the worsening state of insecurity in this country, we are working tirelessly to bring an end to all these security challenges.” the NSA said.

The former service chiefs were relieved from office in January after six years at the helm amidst accusations of non-performance. Mr. Buhari, however, promptly nominated them as non-career ambassadors.

They have since been given speedy confirmation by the Nigerian Senate that many now consider as mere “rubber stamp” to the executive.