Why Buhari refused to name successor — Ex-DSS DG, Yusuf Bichi

Fresh revelation has emerged on why former PresidentMuhammadu Buhari declined to publicly support a successor ahead of the 2022presidential election. The explanation is contained in a newly released book thatexplores Buhari’s leadership approach, security mindset, and management ofpower within the All Progressives Congress (APC). Titled “From Soldier to Statesman: The Legacy of MuhammaduBuhari”, the book was unveiled in Abuja and provides behind-the-scenes accountsof critical decisions taken during Buhari’s presidency. Authored by Dr Charles Omole, Director General of theInstitute for Police and Security Policy Research (IPSPR), the 600-page workcompiles reflections from senior officials who closely worked with the formerpresident. A key revelation came from the former Director General ofthe Department of State Services (DSS), Yusuf Bichi, who addressed thelong-running debate over Buhari’s refusal to anoint a preferred candidateduring the APC presidential primary. According to Bichi, Buhari intentionally avoided endorsingany aspirant to safeguard lives and maintain internal party cohesion. He disclosed that intelligence reports at the time indicatedthat openly backing a candidate could expose such an individual to gravesecurity risks amid an intense and highly competitive political atmosphere. Bichi noted that Buhari’s silence was often misinterpretedas a lack of interest, but it was actually a deliberate, security-drivenstrategy aimed at preventing internal crisis and possible disintegration withinthe ruling party. He noted that the former president believed that publiclynaming a successor would heighten rivalries, increase hostility, andpotentially place the endorsed individual in physical danger. “In those months, knives were out; politically and, assecurity professionals know too well, sometimes literally,” Bichi stated in thebook. He added that Buhari chose to absorb criticism rather thanrisk destabilising the party or endangering human life. The former DSS chief said Buhari felt that allowing theprimary process to play out freely helped distribute political risk amongaspirants and prevented the concentration of hostility on one individual. The book presentation which attracted a high-profileaudience at the Presidential Villa, including President Bola Ahmed Tinubu,Gambian President Adama Barrow, governors, ministers, diplomats, traditionalrulers, and members of Buhari’s family.

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