Major General Bamidele Olawumi (retd.) has rebutted Senator Adams Oshiomhole’s claim that retired military generals are involved in illegal mining in Nigeria.
Oshiomhole stated, “Those involved in illegal mining are people in high places, including retired generals. They are well-known individuals with private armies protecting their mining sites.” This assertion has drawn significant backlash from retired officers who feel unfairly accused.
Gen. Olawumi called Oshiomhole’s remarks “reckless, baseless, and offensive,” stressing that they tarnish the reputation of honorable retired generals. He stated, “As a retired general who served this country faithfully, I find Oshiomhole’s comments not only false but an affront to my legacy. His generalization exposes retired generals to unwarranted public scorn.”
Olawumi urged Oshiomhole to provide evidence for his claims or retract them. He added, “If he has credible evidence of any retired general involved in illegal mining, he should report them to the relevant authorities. Making baseless accusations is unpatriotic and irresponsible.”
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He also demanded a public apology from Oshiomhole, asserting that his statements have undermined the integrity of retired officers who dedicated their lives to serving the nation. “I demand an immediate apology to all retired generals unjustly maligned by this statement. If he cannot substantiate his claims, Oshiomhole should avoid making such damaging comments in the future,” Olawumi stated.
Olawumi warned that comments from someone of Oshiomhole’s stature could erode public trust in retired officers and distract from combating illegal mining. “Oshiomhole must understand that his words carry weight. Unfounded accusations only serve to damage reputations and create unnecessary tension,” he remarked.
To address illegal mining, Olawumi called on the Federal Government to enhance regulatory frameworks and enforcement, advocating for “severe penalties on offenders” and the establishment of a task force that includes security agencies, environmental experts, and community representatives to monitor illegal mining activities.
Oshiomhole’s Accusations Against Ex-Military Officers Baseless, Says Retired General
