Former Chief of Defence Staff, General Lucky Irabor, has cautioned that any act of disrespect toward uniformed personnel constitutes an affront to the authority of the Nigerian state.
Speaking at the 21st All Nigeria Editors’ Conference (ANEC 2025) during a national dialogue on media, terrorism, and national security in Abuja on Thursday, Gen. Irabor emphasized the symbolic weight of military and security uniforms.
“The uniform is not about who is wearing it; it represents the authority, power, dignity, and sovereignty of the state,” he stated. “Whether it’s a junior officer or a senior one, disparaging remarks or disrespectful actions are effectively an insult to the nation itself.”
Irabor, who led the Nigerian Armed Forces from 2021 to 2023, described public reactions to the recent encounter between FCT Minister Nyesom Wike and a military officer as “largely misguided,” noting that many commentators had overlooked the real issue.
Read also:
Wike decries Military takeover of Abuja land, accuses ex-Naval Chief of illegal encroachment
DHQ says 16 military officers to face disciplinary action for inappropriate behaviour
Despite surge in insecurity Nigeria Military Weapons imports hit N26.95 Billion in first half of 2025
He reminded citizens that military personnel operate under strict codes of conduct, and even senior officers face disciplinary action for misconduct. “Even as a General, I cannot slap my soldier. If I do, I will face disciplinary action. There are established mechanisms for addressing misconduct, and that is what distinguishes a state governed by law from a jungle,” he said.
The retired general also explained the legal principles behind evaluating offenses, noting the importance of actus reus (the act) and mens rea (the intent). While acknowledging the FCT minister’s authority over land matters, he stressed that the controversy centers on respect for state authority as embodied by uniformed officers.
Irabor expressed concern over declining civic education and public understanding of national institutions. “We’ve lost our educational traction. Respect for institutions and understanding authority, once taught in schools, is now largely forgotten,” he said.
He called on the media to play a constructive role in shaping national discourse. “The media are the last men standing in the defence of the state. Your words carry immense power. Use them responsibly to strengthen, not weaken, the nation,” Irabor urged.
The retired general further warned that if citizens and leaders disregard the symbols of state authority, Nigeria risks descending into lawlessness. “If the person in uniform misuses authority, they will be dealt with. But the uniform itself must be respected. That is what sustains order in a civilized society,” he added.
Gen. Irabor concluded with a firm reminder: “We must not turn our country into a jungle where everyone takes the law into their own hands. Respect the uniform. Respect what it stands for.”
