‘We Must Not Throw The Baby Away With The Bathwater’- Gebi Denies Wrongdoing, Defends Patriotism Amid Alleged Intelligence Controversy

Former lawmaker and security governance expert, Hon. Aliyu Ibrahim Gebi, has denied allegations linking him to the provision of false intelligence to foreign embassies, insisting that his actions and public engagements have always been guided by patriotism and national interest.

In a detailed response issued on Friday, Gebi said he would “never speak ill of Nigeria, its President, or heads of security agencies,” adding that attempts to portray his contributions in a negative light were painful and misrepresentative of his record in public service and national security engagements.

He questioned the basis of reports suggesting that intelligence attributed to him influenced international travel advisories and diplomatic reactions, including security-related decisions affecting Nigeria’s global image.

According to him, it was necessary to critically examine whether the reported intelligence incident was solely responsible for broader international security assessments, arguing that such conclusions may be overly simplistic.

Gebi recalled his past involvement in national security engagements, stating that during the administration of former President Muhammadu Buhari, he was among those who publicly defended Nigeria when discussions emerged about the possible evacuation of foreign diplomatic personnel.

He maintained that he remained consistent in his defence of the country, adding that he had never undermined Nigeria’s sovereignty or institutions at any point in his career.

The former lawmaker also referenced broader geopolitical developments, arguing that external presence and international security partnerships should be examined within the context of Nigeria’s evolving intelligence-sharing arrangements.

He stressed that Nigeria must remain cautious in handling sensitive intelligence matters, warning against premature conclusions that could undermine trust between individuals, institutions, and international partners.

Gebi further reaffirmed his confidence in Nigeria’s security agencies, including the Office of the National Security Adviser, the Department of State Services (DSS), and the Armed Forces, noting that they were making progress in addressing the country’s security challenges.

He urged stakeholders to approach intelligence-related controversies with restraint, calling for reflection and adherence to due process rather than emotional or politically motivated interpretations.

“We must not throw the baby away with the bathwater,” he said, adding that national security communication must be handled with care to avoid unintended diplomatic consequences.

Gebi described himself as a “patriot who has bled for Nigeria,” insisting that his commitment to the country remained unwavering and lifelong.

“I love my country. I have bled for my country. And I will never stop defending it,” he said.

He reaffirmed that his position on national issues has always been driven by optimism and belief in Nigeria’s resilience, adding that the country would continue to endure and progress despite its challenges.

The statement comes amid ongoing public debate surrounding his alleged arrest and investigation by security agencies over claims of intelligence dissemination to foreign missions.