- The Coalition of Arewa Youths for Peace and Security rejected reckless claims calling for General Christopher Gwabin Musa’s removal
- Leaders stressed that the individual making the claims did not represent Northern youths or the coalition
- The group urged Nigerians to support the Armed Forces and Ministry of Defence in maintaining peace and tackling insecurity
The Coalition of Arewa Youths for Peace and Security has condemned what it described as “reckless and unwarranted remarks” made by an individual who falsely claimed to speak for Northern youths while calling for the dismissal of the Minister of Defence, General Christopher Gwabin Musa (rtd).
In a statement jointly signed by the coalition’s President, Dr Mohammed Jallo, and Secretary, Hajiya Zainab Ibrahim, the group distanced itself from the presenter, stressing that he neither represents the views of the coalition nor speaks for the wider body of responsible Northern youths committed to peace and national security.
The remarks come after a separate group, identifying itself as Arewa Youths, publicly demanded Musa’s removal. However, the coalition described the statement as misleading, disrespectful, and indicative of a lack of understanding of Nigeria’s security architecture and the collective efforts undertaken by the Armed Forces under Musa’s leadership.
“The person making such statements clearly does not understand the complexity of the security challenges confronting our nation or the strategic reforms currently being implemented within the defence sector. His outburst appears to be either politically motivated or orchestrated by interests seeking to undermine the credibility of Nigeria’s security leadership,” the statement read.
The coalition strongly rejected claims labelling Musa as a “sleeping minister,” describing the allegation as a gross misrepresentation and an attempt to tarnish the reputation of a decorated officer who has dedicated decades to defending Nigeria. It highlighted that, as Chief of Defence Staff, Musa has coordinated intensified joint military operations, strengthening collaboration among the Army, Navy, and Air Force in tackling terrorism, insurgency, and banditry.
The group emphasised that Nigeria’s security challenges cannot be attributed to a single individual, noting that combating criminality and insurgency requires a coordinated national effort, patience, and responsible public discourse.
“While citizens have the right to express their opinions, such expressions must be guided by facts, responsibility, and patriotism. Reckless accusations and emotional rhetoric only embolden enemies of the state and weaken national morale,” the coalition added.
The group urged Nigerians to disregard the presenter’s claims, insisting he does not represent the aspirations of Northern youths, who continue to support national security institutions. It called on citizens to back the Armed Forces and the Ministry of Defence in their ongoing efforts to restore lasting peace and stability across the country.