By: Bayero Ade
Major General Bamidele Johnson Olawumi (Rtd.), a retired military officer, has strongly criticized Senator Adams Oshiomhole’s recent remarks alleging that retired military generals are involved in illegal mining operations in Nigeria.
According to Vanguard, Oshiomhole was quoted as saying, “Those involved in illegal mining are individuals in high places, including retired generals. These are well-known people with private armies who protect their illegal mining sites.” His statement has faced significant backlash, especially from retired military officers who feel unfairly implicated by such broad accusations.
In a detailed response, General Olawumi labeled Oshiomhole’s comments as “irresponsible, unfounded, and offensive,” claiming that the senator’s words have tarnished the reputation of retired generals who served their country with honor.
“As a retired general who has dedicated my life to serving this nation, I find Senator Oshiomhole’s allegations to be not only false but also an attack on my integrity and the legacy of my service. His careless remarks have exposed retired generals like myself to unnecessary public ridicule and suspicion,” Olawumi stated.
The retired general called for Oshiomhole to either provide solid evidence to support his claims or retract them. “If he has valid evidence of any retired general being involved in illegal mining, the appropriate step would be to report them to the Department of State Services (DSS) or other relevant authorities. Publicly making unfounded accusations without proof is irresponsible and damaging,” Olawumi added.
Olawumi also demanded a public apology from Oshiomhole, stressing that his statements have unjustly undermined the integrity of many retired officers who have devoted their lives to serving the nation.
“I urge Senator Oshiomhole to immediately apologize to all retired generals who have been wrongfully maligned by his reckless statements. If he cannot provide evidence to back up his claims, he should refrain from making such harmful remarks in the future,” Olawumi asserted.
Furthermore, Olawumi warned that such remarks from a person of Oshiomhole’s stature could harm the public trust in retired military officers and distract from the nation’s ongoing efforts to combat illegal mining.
“Oshiomhole needs to realize that words matter, especially coming from someone in his position. Unsubstantiated accusations only serve to damage reputations and stir unnecessary conflict,” Olawumi concluded.
The statement has sparked a wave of reactions, with many calling on Senator Oshiomhole to either substantiate his claims or retract them. As of now, Oshiomhole has yet to respond to the demands from General Olawumi and other offended parties.
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