The military high command says the viral video of House Majority Leader Ado Doguwa is a calculated attempt to tarnish the armed forces. In the footage, the lawmaker from the Doguwa/Tudunwada Federal Constituency in Kano State is seen handling and firing an AK‑47 under the guidance of military personnel. Doguwa was arrested for alleged involvement in the killing of several people and the burning of the New Nigeria People’s Party Secretariat during the recent general elections. He was arraigned in court and later released on bail.
In a Friday‑night statement, Defence Information Director Brigadier General Tukur Gusau did not deny that the incident occurred, but he asserted that the video is not recent. He explained that Doguwa was a special guest at the 3 Brigade Nigerian Army training exercise held at Falgore Forest Military Training Camp. The Defence Headquarters described the video as a “calculated attempt by mischief makers to discredit the Armed Forces of Nigeria and dent its image before the people of this country and the world at large.”
Gusau clarified that when senior citizens and special guests are invited to such exercises, they are allowed to participate in a ceremonial firing party. This practice is not intended to train them as gunners or to master firearms; it is a customary ceremonial activity observed worldwide and has been performed by other senior citizens in the Nigerian military. He emphasized that the video was posted with the intent to damage the armed forces’ reputation, especially at a time when their role in the recent presidential and National Assembly elections has been praised both domestically and internationally.
The director also noted that Doguwa’s speech at the event was manipulated, and some clerics released audio clips containing distorted interpretations of his remarks. He warned that such doctored content could incite a crisis and heighten tensions as the country prepares for a peaceful transition to a new government.
Finally, Gusau pledged that the military would never train or arm anyone to take up weapons against law‑abiding citizens, assuring Nigerians that the Armed Forces of Nigeria will not engage in such activities under any circumstances.
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