National Security Adviser Sacked in Nigeria

Acting President Jonathan - Asserting his Authority

Acting President Goodluck Jonathan has replaced Sarki Mukhtar, the country’s National Security Adviser. The move is seen as a further sign in Jonathan asserting his authority after the return of the sick President Umaru Yar’Adua. Sarki Mukhtar has been a powerful figure in the inner circle of Yar’Adua.  He has been replaced with Aliyu Gusau, who is a retired general from the north and seen as a potential presidential candidate in the forthcoming elections due next year.

The new security adviser also served as national security adviser to former President Olusegun Obasanjo. He was also the main contender alongside Yar’Adua to be the ruling People’s Democratic Party candidate in the 2007 elections. A statement from the Acting president’s office reads “Dr Jonathan thanked the outgoing national security adviser for his services to the nation and wished him well in his future endeavours.”  Apparently, the statement did not give any reason for the sacking.

Aliyu Gusau has been tipped to be a contender for the presidency. He could take over as vice president to Jonathan for the rest of the unexpired term should Yar’Adua die or resign, paving the way for him to be the ruling party’s presidential nominee in the next elections. According to reports, this could be the first step towards reorganising the security apparatus and could suggest as possible vice presidential role for Gusau.

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