El-Rufai: Muslim-Christian Group Backs Defence Minister Musa

The Kaduna State Muslim-Christian Network for Good Governance has backed the Minister of Defence, General Christopher Musa, over his recent comments on the administration of former Kaduna State governor, Nasir El-Rufai.

The group, which described itself as a political pressure group comprising Muslims and Christians, said Musa’s comments reflected the experiences of residents during El-Rufai’s tenure as governor from 2015 to 2023.

In a statement jointly signed by its Chairman, Tahir Tanko, and Secretary, Steven Kefas, the group accused the former administration of implementing policies and taking actions that, according to it, deepened divisions in the state.

The group alleged that thousands of workers were sacked, actions were taken against traditional rulers, insecurity was poorly handled, while markets and homes were demolished without adequate compensation.

It further alleged that Christian and Muslim leaders who criticised some government policies were subjected to arrest and detention, while also accusing the administration of overseeing the killing of Shiites.

According to the group, Musa’s comments should not be interpreted as targeting any particular ethnic or religious group or as referring exclusively to residents of Southern Kaduna.

The group argued that the minister’s reference to “our people” in discussing deaths allegedly linked to El-Rufai’s administration should be understood as referring to residents across Kaduna State who, it said, were affected by the former governor’s policies, actions or alleged failure to effectively manage insecurity.

It also challenged those criticising Musa to present contrary facts rather than resort to ethnic or religious sentiments in defending the former governor.

The group said it was pleased that Musa had brought renewed attention to what it described as longstanding concerns over the former administration’s record, adding that his comments had generated wider discussion about governance and division in Kaduna State.

It expressed support for the minister’s work in the security sector and wished him success in his efforts to improve the country’s security situation.

The group also called on citizens of Kaduna State to support the present administration’s efforts to promote unity, inclusiveness and fairness in governance.