The Arewa Youths have called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to immediately remove the Minister of Defence, Christopher Musa, over what they described as worsening insecurity across northern Nigeria.
The group said the minister had failed to effectively address the escalating wave of terrorism, banditry and kidnappings in the region.
Speaking during an interview aired on News Century TV on Wednesday, the President of the group, Abdul Danbature, alleged that the number of military casualties recorded under Musa’s leadership was unprecedented.
Danbature claimed that more than 100 soldiers were killed by terrorists within the past week alone, while over 250 people were reportedly kidnapped during the same period.
He criticised the defence minister’s handling of security challenges, accusing him of prioritising media appearances over decisive action against insurgents.
“We celebrated so much when General Christopher Musa was appointed as the Minister of Defence, but as it is today, we say no to Christopher Musa,” Danbature said during the interview.
The youth leader urged the President to act swiftly by replacing the minister with someone capable of tackling the country’s security challenges.
“Mr President, if you do not take any action, Christopher Musa will destroy your leadership as the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria,” he said.
Danbature further warned that failure to act could see Musa remembered as one of the worst defence ministers in Nigeria’s history.
The Arewa Youths also reminded the President that northern youths played a significant role in his electoral victory during the 2023 Nigerian presidential election, stressing that their demand was driven by the need for accountability and improved security.
In recent months, several northern states have witnessed renewed attacks by bandits and terrorists, with communities and security personnel increasingly targeted.
Musa, a former Chief of Defence Staff, initially received support from some northern stakeholders following his appointment as defence minister, largely due to his military background.
However, the resurgence of violence across parts of the North has sparked growing criticism of his leadership and strategy.
As of the time of filing this report, neither the Presidency nor the Ministry of Defence had issued an official response to the group’s demand.
Meanwhile, the interview clip circulating on social media has triggered fresh debate over the Federal Government’s approach to tackling Nigeria’s persistent security crisis.
'
'Do you want to share a story with us? Do you want to advertise with us? Do you need publicity for a product, service, or event? Contact us on WhatsApp +2348183319097 Email: platformtimes@gmail.com
We are committed to impactful investigative journalism for human interest and social justice. Your donation will help us tell more stories. Kindly donate any amount HERE
