By Chuks Oyema-Aziken
The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) on Saturday said it’s invitation extended to retired Cdre Kunle Olawunmi was intended to get credible tips on boosting the fight against terrorism/insurgency, banditry and sundry crimes.
The DHQ stated this in reaction to news report alleging that the Defence Intelligence Agency (DIA) ordered his arrest.
Cdre Olawunmi has been in the news of recent after appearing on Channels Television programme (Sunrise Daily) where he shared his views on matters of defence and national security.
Major General Benjamin Sawyerr,Director Defence Information, in a press release Saturday night said the Armed Forces may not want to join issues with Sahara Reporters for the scandalous and malicious publication insinuating that it’s Agency has ordered the arrest of Cdre Olawunmi (rtd) for sharing his views on matters of defence and national security.
The DDI said “It is gratifying to clarify that the retired military officer who is on the military reserve list was only invited via SMS and voice by DIA to further furnish the AFN with relevant and pressing security information which he may be opportuned to have knowledge of as a Professor of Global Security Studies.
“The said proposed meeting between DIA and the retired senior Navy officer was intended to get credible tips on boosting the fight against terrorism/insurgency, banditry and sundry crimes. He was not asked to come along with his international passport. This in no way constitute any form of arrest speculated by Sahara Reporters.
“It is very sad that an online media like Sahara Reporters would capitalize on a proposed meeting between an agency and it’s stakeholder to paint the story in a manner intended to portray the military as draconic government agency acting in a crude manner.
“The general public should please note that the AFN is a professional entity that will continue to be responsive to all credible information that will promote peace and unity of our dear country.
“As you will recall, the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Lucky Irabor has just completed his tour of the 6 Geo-Political Zones where he interacted with retired military officers with a view to rallying them to lend their support to the Armed Forces of Nigeria.
“In this regard, I wish to use this medium to encourage the retired senior officer to come forward to give valuable information to the military authorities as a patriotic citizen who has served meritoriously in Nigerian Navy in various capacities before retirement.”
