A coalition of youths from northern Nigeria, known as the Northern Nigeria United Youths for Peace and Progress, has expressed their support for Minister of Defence Christopher Gwabin Musa, while criticizing recent demands for his resignation.
At a press conference held on Thursday at the Epitome Events Centre in Barnawa, Kaduna, the group convened to discuss recent developments impacting Nigeria’s security and national cohesion.
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According to Kaduna Political Affairs, the youths noted an uptick in attacks over recent months, blaming terrorists, bandits, and others allegedly exploiting the insecurity for political gain.
They recognized that the national administration led by Bola Ahmed Tinubu, which commenced on May 29, 2023, has seen improvements in security, particularly during Musa’s time as Chief of Defence Staff prior to his current role.
The coalition attributed Musa’s effective leadership to motivating troops, enhancing inter-agency collaboration, and implementing non-kinetic strategies involving community partnerships.
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They highlighted that Musa’s firm stance against negotiating with bandits played a significant role in the progress achieved during his tenure.
The youth group remarked that Musa’s earlier removal as Chief of Defence Staff faced backlash from some Nigerians, but his subsequent appointment as Defence Minister was largely welcomed due to his experience in combating insecurity.
However, the coalition expressed dismay over what they termed “personal attacks” directed at the minister by certain individuals and groups.
They specifically condemned remarks made by Ambassador Abdul Dan Bature and activist Omoyele Sowore, labeling them as irresponsible and politically charged.
The group urged Sowore to retract his statements and apologize publicly to Musa, while calling on Nigerian youths to engage leaders respectfully instead of resorting to insults or inflammatory language.
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Additionally, they dismissed the assertions made by Bature and his associates, affirming that these do not reflect the sentiments of northern youths.
Reiterating their support for Musa and President Tinubu, the coalition expressed optimism that the ongoing reforms within the Ministry of Defence would bolster Nigeria’s security framework and enhance cooperation among security forces.
They also called on citizens to remain vigilant and collaborate with security agencies by providing necessary intelligence and community support in the fight against insecurity.
The statement was signed by the coalition’s leaders: Malam Idris Mohammed, Co-Convener; Zaradeen Tuge, Co-Convener; and Edward John Auta, Convener.
