Major General Bamidele Olawumi (retd.), a former military officer, has strongly criticised Senator Adams Oshiomhole for his recent claims that retired military generals are involved in illegal mining activities in Nigeria.
In a statement released on Tuesday, Olawumi, who previously served as the Director-General of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), described Oshiomhole’s comments as “reckless, baseless, and offensive.”
He accused the senator of unjustly tarnishing the reputation of retired generals who have served Nigeria with honour.
“As a retired general who has faithfully served this country, I find Senator Oshiomhole’s comments not only false but a direct affront to my person and the legacy of my service,” Olawumi stated. His reckless generalisation has exposed retired generals like myself to unwarranted public scorn and suspicion.”
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Olawumi called on Oshiomhole to provide concrete evidence to back his claims or withdraw the allegations altogether. He added, “If he possesses credible evidence of any retired general involved in illegal mining, the responsible action would be to report such individuals to the Department of State Services or other relevant authorities. Resorting to baseless public accusations without proof is unpatriotic and irresponsible.”
The retired general further demanded a public apology, asserting that Oshiomhole’s remarks had tarnished the honour and integrity of retired military officers.
“I demand an immediate apology to all retired generals who have been unfairly maligned by this reckless statement,” Olawumi said.
“If he cannot provide evidence to substantiate his claims, Senator Oshiomhole should refrain from making such damaging comments in the future.”
He also cautioned that such statements could undermine public trust in retired officers and distract from the nation’s efforts to tackle illegal mining.
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