My Role in the Coup That Ousted Buhari’s Regime is Well Documented – Col. Abubakar Dangiwa Umar (retired)
In a conversation with THE SUN, retired Colonel Abubakar Dangiwa Umar, the former military governor of old Kaduna State, discussed various issues, including his alleged involvement in past coups and the resurgence of military coups in Africa, particularly the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) region.
Umar began by clarifying his role in coups, stating firmly, “Let me make this clarification. I did not participate in any coup against any elected government. My role in the coup that ousted General Muhammadu Buhari’s regime in August 1985 is well documented.”
He then discussed the challenges surrounding military coups in Africa, noting that the international community’s unease is justified given the continent’s shift away from the democratic process of free and fair elections. Umar acknowledged the need for change in regimes headed by leaders who cling to power indefinitely. He cited examples like Paul Biya in Cameroon, Yoweri Museveni in Uganda, and others who have remained in power for decades, emphasizing that their sham elections do not make their systems democratic.
Umar emphasized that the international community, including the African Union (AU) and ECOWAS, should not legitimize such regimes led by sit-tight leaders; instead, they should be treated similarly to military regimes. He argued that genuine democracy involves more than just elections, emphasizing good governance, individual freedoms, adherence to the rule of law, and other democratic dividends.
Regarding the ongoing ECOWAS-Niger crisis, Umar expressed concerns about Nigeria’s role and President Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s approach as ECOWAS Chairman. He questioned whether Nigeria’s threats would persuade the Niger Republic junta to return power to the elected President Bazoum, expressing doubts about this outcome. Umar believed that respected elders should not be sent to convince the coup leaders but that they should stay in Nigeria and offer prayers.
Umar delved into the coup in Niger, labeling it unnecessary, as President Bazoum had only been in office for about two years and was performing well. He knew Bazoum personally and considered him progressive and honest. The coup leader, General Abdourahamane Tchiani, acted out of selfish motives to retain power. Umar criticized the ECOWAS’ harsh treatment of General Tchiani’s regime compared to other military regimes in the region.
Furthermore, Umar raised concerns about Nigeria’s absence from the international stage over the past eight years, emphasizing the need for the country to regain its leadership role in Africa and beyond.
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