Mahdi Shehu criticises Nigeria security system corruption, alleging misuse of defence funds and warning of its impact on national insecurity

Public affairs commentator Mahdi Shehu on Thursday, March 27, 2026, criticised Nigeria’s security architecture, alleging that the system has evolved into one that benefits a limited group of individuals while leaving the wider population exposed to persistent insecurity.

In a post shared on his verified X account, Shehu described security as a collective concern that affects every citizen either positively or negatively, stressing that its management should reflect transparency and accountability.

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He argued that, instead, the sector has become a lucrative enterprise for a select few who operate within its financial and administrative structures.

Shehu pointed to the period between 2015 and 2023 as particularly revealing, claiming that disclosures made by serving and former military officials exposed troubling patterns in the handling of security-related funds.

According to him, these revelations shocked Nigerians and brought to light instances of alleged mismanagement, misappropriation and diversion of resources intended to strengthen national defence.

He referenced public testimonies and statements attributed to senior security figures, including former Chief of Army Staff Tukur Buratai, former National Security Adviser Babagana Monguno, and the late Chief of Army Staff Ibrahim Attahiru.

He suggested that their accounts helped illustrate the scale of challenges within the system and contributed to public understanding of why insecurity has persisted despite significant budgetary allocations.

The commentator maintained that the disclosures effectively highlighted systemic weaknesses that have hindered effective security operations.

He described the situation as a sobering reflection of governance lapses, arguing that repeated concerns raised at high levels point to deeper structural issues rather than isolated incidents.

Shehu further remarked that Nigeria’s security challenges remain paradoxical, noting that increased spending has not necessarily translated into improved safety for citizens.

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His comments add to ongoing public discourse around defence accountability, institutional transparency and the effectiveness of strategies deployed to combat insecurity across the country.

The remarks underscore continuing concerns among analysts and commentators who argue that reform within the security sector remains essential to restoring public confidence and improving operational outcomes nationwide.