NOSCEF condemns alleged smear campaign against defence minister, urges support for security efforts

From Noah Ebije, Kaduna

The Northern States Christian Elders’ Forum (NOSCEF) has condemned what it described as an orchestrated smear campaign against the Minister of Defence, General Christopher Gwabin Musa (retd), urging Nigerians to unite behind the ongoing efforts to tackle insecurity across the country.

Some faceless Nigerians have, in recent times, fabricated stories on social media that the Minister had resigned from President Bola Tinubu’s government.

However, in a statement by its Chairman, Elder Sunday Oibe, the NOSCEF said attempts to discredit the defence minister were unfortunate and could undermine collective efforts to address the nation’s security challenges.

“We consider these calculated attempts to malign a man, who has devoted virtually his entire adult life to the service of Nigeria as not only unfortunate but also detrimental to the collective efforts to overcome the security challenges confronting our nation,” the statement read.

NOSCEF praised Musa’s military career, saying he distinguished himself through competence, discipline and leadership before his appointment as Minister of Defence.

According to the forum, Musa made significant contributions during his tenure as Theatre Commander of Operation HADIN KAI, where he “played a pivotal role in leading decisive operations against Boko Haram and ISWAP terrorists, significantly degrading their operational capabilities and restoring hope to many communities in the North-East.”

The group also highlighted his tenure as Chief of Defence Staff, crediting him with championing intelligence-driven military operations, strengthening collaboration among security agencies, improving troop welfare and enhancing regional security cooperation.

It further stated that these efforts contributed to renewed momentum in the fight against terrorism, banditry, kidnapping, oil theft and other criminal activities.

Speaking on Musa’s current role, NOSCEF said the minister had continued to demonstrate patriotism and strategic leadership under the administration of President Bola Tinubu.

“Today, as Minister of Defence under the visionary leadership of President Bola Tinubu, General Christopher Musa has continued to demonstrate the same patriotism, courage and strategic foresight that defined his military career,” the statement said.

The forum added that the minister had embarked on reforms aimed at repositioning Nigeria’s defence architecture, strengthening border security, improving defence planning, enhancing inter-agency collaboration and building institutional capacity to address emerging security threats.

“It is, therefore, regrettable that at a time when the nation requires unity of purpose, some individuals have chosen to politicise security matters and launch unwarranted attacks against a public servant, whose only offence appears to be his unwavering commitment to national service,” NOSCEF stated.

The Christian elders’ forum cautioned against politicising security issues, insisting that national security should not become a victim of partisan interests.

“National security must never become a casualty of partisan politics or personal vendettas. Those seeking to distract or undermine the Minister should remember that insecurity remains a common enemy requiring collective action rather than divisive rhetoric,” it said.

It called on political leaders, civil society organisations, the media and Nigerians to support the Federal Government’s efforts to strengthen the country’s security architecture.

“Constructive engagement is welcome, but deliberate campaigns of misinformation, character assassination and political manipulation only serve the interests of criminal elements who seek to destabilise our country,” the statement added.

The forum also urged citizens to continue supporting the Armed Forces and other security agencies by providing credible intelligence and cooperating with lawful authorities.

“The fight against insecurity cannot be won by the government alone; it requires the active participation of every patriotic citizen,” it said.

Reaffirming its confidence in the defence minister, NOSCEF expressed optimism that he would continue to implement reforms that would consolidate the gains already recorded in Nigeria’s security sector.

“History will remember those who stood with Nigeria during difficult times, not those who sought to weaken the resolve of those carrying the heavy burden of defending our nation,” the statement concluded.