How NIA DG, Rufai Abubakar, Who Failed Promotion Exams Three Times, Was Forced to Resign from Tinubu’s Govt
NIA DG, Rufai Abubakar, Resigns: Ahmed Rufai Abubakar, the Director-General of the National Intelligence Agency, has resigned citing personal and family reasons. His resignation followed a routine briefing with President Bola Tinubu.
Buhari Extended Tenure of NIA DG Rufai Abubakar Despite Exam Failures
Despite failing promotion exams three times, Ahmed Rufai Abubakar was reappointed as Director-General (DG) of the National Intelligence Agency (NIA) by former President Muhammadu Buhari, sparking accusations of tribalism and religious bias. Concerns were raised by several NIA directors, who questioned Abubakar’s qualifications and the implications of his appointment.
NIA Directors Demand Removal of Ahmed Rufai Abubakar
In a letter to the House of Representatives Committee on Security and National Intelligence, a group of directors within the NIA, under the name “Concerned Directors of NIA,” called for the immediate removal of Abubakar. They argued that his appointment set a dangerous precedent, as he was the first person to head the agency without holding the rank of director.
The directors expressed fears that Abubakar might purge senior officers, jeopardizing the agency’s effectiveness. They highlighted the potential security risks posed by Abubakar’s ties to Chad, raising concerns about his loyalty and the integrity of his vetting process.
Concerns Over National Security
The directors emphasized the threat to Nigeria’s national security if Abubakar remained in his position. They warned that any attempt to disregard their concerns could lead to the misuse of the agency’s sensitive information.
Allegations Against the Presidential Review Panel
The directors also accused the Babagana Kingibe-led Presidential Review Panel of violating its own recommendations by appointing Abubakar. They alleged that the panel was created to protect former NIA DG Ayo Oke, with the intent of keeping control over the remaining $44 million of the NIA intervention fund.
Manufactured Documents Allegation
Furthermore, the directors claimed that the Clandestine Operations Unit of the NIA was being used to create and clone documents to defend Abubakar against the legitimacy crisis he faced. These allegations, coupled with his failed promotion exams, ultimately led to Abubakar’s forced resignation from President Tinubu’s government.
