Northern organisation distances itself from individual's online criticism of defence minister

The Coalition of Arewa Youths for Peace and Security has vehemently denounced the inflammatory remarks made by an individual falsely purporting to speak on behalf of Northern youths, calling for the resignation of Minister of Defence, Gen. Christopher Musa (rtd).

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In a joint statement, the group's President, Dr. Mohamed Jallo, and Secretary, Hajiya Zainab Ibrahim, categorically distanced themselves from the individual, emphasizing that he does not represent the coalition's views or those of responsible Northern youths dedicated to peace and national security.

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The group deemed the individual's comments as not only misleading and disrespectful but also indicative of a profound lack of understanding of Nigeria's security architecture and the collective efforts of the Armed Forces under Gen. Musa's leadership.

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The coalition asserted that the individual's statements demonstrate a clear misunderstanding of the complexity of Nigeria's security challenges and the strategic reforms being implemented within the defence sector, suggesting that his outburst may be politically motivated or orchestrated by interests seeking to undermine the credibility of Nigeria's security leadership.

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The claim that the Defence Minister is a "sleeping minister" was described by the coalition as a gross misrepresentation of reality and an attempt to tarnish the reputation of a decorated military officer who has spent decades defending Nigeria, with Gen. Musa's record of service speaking for itself.

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As Chief of Defence Staff, Gen. Musa coordinated intensified joint military operations across the country, strengthening collaboration among the Army, Navy, and Air Force in the fight against terrorism, insurgency, and banditry, resulting in significant gains in counter-terrorism operations.

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The Armed Forces, under his leadership, reclaimed territories previously threatened by terrorists and enhanced intelligence-driven operations that weakened several criminal networks across the North-East, North-West, and other troubled regions.

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Since assuming office as Minister of Defence, Gen. Musa has continued to demonstrate strong strategic leadership through reforms aimed at modernising Nigeria's defence capabilities, improving troop welfare, strengthening civil-military relations, and deepening collaboration with international partners in tackling transnational security threats.

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The coalition emphasized that Nigeria's security challenges cannot be reduced to the actions of one individual, requiring instead a coordinated national effort, patience, and responsible public discourse to defeat terrorism and criminality.

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Citizens have the right to express their opinions, but such expressions must be guided by facts, responsibility, and patriotism, as reckless accusations and emotional rhetoric only embolden enemies of the state and weaken national morale.

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The group urged Nigerians to disregard the presenter's claims, as he neither represents the voice nor the aspirations of Northern youths who remain committed to supporting national security institutions.

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The Coalition of Arewa Youths for Peace and Security reaffirmed its confidence in the leadership of Gen. Christopher Musa and called on Nigerians to support the Armed Forces and the Ministry of Defence in their ongoing efforts to restore lasting peace and stability across the country.