Defence Minister Interview’s Comments Crucial For Broader National Security, Unity, Peace Conversation – PBAT Group

The CG Musa for PBAT Support Group, has described the issues raised in the recent interview granted by the Minister of Defence, General Christopher Musa (Rtd) on Channels Television as important to the  general conversation on national security, unity and peaceful coexistence.

According to the group, the Defence Minister’s intervention should be understood within the context in which it was made particularly the urgent need to confront the challenges that have divided communities, threatened national security and weakened social cohesion.

The Director General, CG Musa for PBAT Support Group, Zakariyah Yakub in a statement issued in Abuja insisted that

General Musa spoke from the perspective of a soldier who had dedicated decades of his life to the service of Nigeria and who has witnessed, first-hand, the devastating consequences of insecurity, communal conflict and social division.

The group argued that the former Defence Chief’s concerns about Kaduna state and the broader question of national cohesion should therefore not be misconstrued as a personal vendetta against any individual.

“At the heart of General Musa’s intervention is a fundamental principle that deserves the attention of all Nigerians: our collective interest must always take precedence over ethnic, religious, regional, or political considerations.

“Nigeria can not afford the continued exploitation of divisions that have the potential to undermine peaceful coexistence and national development. At a time when the country requires greater unity and cooperation, political and public discourse must contribute to healing rather than deepen existing fault lines.

“We acknowledge that individuals who feel aggrieved by statements made during the interview have every right to express their disagreement and, where appropriate, seek legal remedies.

“However, we urge all parties to allow facts, evidence, and due process to guide the resolution of any dispute arising from the interview.

“The larger conversation must not be lost in personality politics. The issues of security, justice, accountability, reconciliation, and national unity are far too important to be reduced to personal exchanges.

“General Christopher Musa has served Nigeria with distinction, and his commitment to a peaceful, secure, and united Nigeria remains unwavering.

“We therefore call on Nigerians, particularly political leaders and public commentators, to approach the ongoing discourse with restraint and responsibility.

“Nigeria must move beyond division. We must choose unity over discord, peace over conflict, and national interest over political bitterness,” the statement added.