My Candid Advice to Matawalle
By Aminu Mohammed
After reading comments and counter comments on the malicious publication capable of undermining the reputation of the office of the Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ogalla, it is pertinent to lend my voice or opinion.
The allegations that the Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ogalla accepted over $170 million in bribes as well as alleged involvement in multi-billion naira contract splitting fraud in the last 6 months are obviously untenable, baseless and untrue.
Without being told, this is just an arrangement to tarnish the image of Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ogalla and Nigerian Navy.
It is wrong for the Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle to threaten to investigate Naval Chief following an unconfirmed report; and without exploring any internal mechanism to check the veracity of the very terrible and damaging claims by the dubious online news portal before expressly endorsing an investigation.
In the realm of national security and defense, it is imperative for key figures to work in tandem, fostering collaboration and unity rather than discord. One such instance demands the attention of Minister of Defence Matawalle, who, in the interest of a harmonious and effective defense apparatus, should prioritize his duties and allow Chief of Naval Staff Emmanuel Ogalla to discharge his responsibilities without unnecessary friction.
First and foremost, the Minister of Defence holds a crucial position, overseeing the entire defense portfolio. His primary responsibility is to ensure the overall security of the nation, addressing threats both domestic and international. Given the magnitude of this task, it is paramount for Minister Matawalle to channel his energy and resources toward strategic planning, coordination, and policy formulation, rather than engaging in conflicts that may distract from these critical duties.
Chief of Naval Staff Emmanuel Ogalla, as a key member of the defense team, shoulders the responsibility of safeguarding the nation’s maritime interests. This includes protecting territorial waters, combating piracy, and ensuring the safety of maritime trade routes. With these formidable challenges at hand, it is essential for him to have the unwavering support and encouragement of his superior, the Minister of Defence, to effectively carry out his duties.
In the contemporary landscape of security challenges, from terrorism to cyber threats, the defense sector requires a multifaceted approach. By allowing Chief Ogalla the space to focus on naval strategies and operations, Minister Matawalle can contribute to a more specialized and effective defense force, tailored to address the unique challenges faced by the Navy.
National security is a collective effort that requires synergy among all branches of the military. The Minister of Defence, by fostering unity and collaboration, can enhance inter-service cooperation, leading to a more formidable defense force capable of responding swiftly and decisively to any threat.
It is vital for Minister Matawalle to recognize the importance of delegating responsibilities to competent and skilled individuals within the defense structure. By empowering Chief Ogalla to lead the Navy without unnecessary interference, Matawalle can harness the expertise of his team, creating a stronger and more resilient defense force.
A focus on internal cohesion within the defense sector is not only essential for national security but also for maintaining the morale of military personnel. Minister Matawalle, by prioritizing his overarching responsibilities, can contribute to a positive and stable work environment, fostering a sense of purpose and dedication among the men and women in uniform.
Amina Mohammed writes from Gusau
