By Umme Hajara Abubakar, Kaduna The Northern Consensus Movement for Peace, Unity and Empowerment Initiative (NSNCM), an amalgamation of 59...
By Umme Hajara Abubakar, Kaduna
The Northern Consensus Movement for Peace, Unity and Empowerment Initiative (NSNCM), an amalgamation of 598 registered community-based associations from the 19 Northern states as well as associations of Northerners residing in the 17 Southern states and the FCT, has responded to a recent statement issued by the North-West Alliance for Security (NWAS), which called for the immediate resignation of the Minister of Defence, Mohammed Badaru Abubakar.
In a press statement signed and made available to journalists, NSNCM President, Comrade Awwal Aliyu Abdullahi, expressed concern over the NWAS position.
"While we understand the concerns raised by NWAS regarding the insecurity in the North-West region, we cannot help but notice the lack of objectivity and factual basis in their allegations," he said.
He acknowledged that the North-West has been severely affected by banditry and violent extremism, which have led to loss of lives, displacement of people, and economic hardship. However, he stressed that it is unfair to single out the Minister of Defence for blame.
"It is unjust to attribute the security challenges solely to the Minister of Defence without recognising the complexities involved and the ongoing efforts to tackle them. Under Minister Badaru Abubakar’s leadership, the Ministry of Defence has implemented several strategies aimed at combating insecurity in the region," the statement read.
According to Abdullahi, these efforts include enhanced military deployment, strategic operations, and community engagement initiatives. He noted that while more work remains to be done, it is important to acknowledge the progress made so far.
"The Minister has also been collaborating with other security agencies, state governments, and international partners to address the root causes of insecurity. These include initiatives aimed at promoting economic development, improving governance, and strengthening security infrastructure," the statement added.
The NSNCM emphasised the importance of accountability in governance but warned against undermining the morale and efforts of security agencies.
"We support the demand for accountability in instances of failure, but we must also recognize the successes and challenges facing our security forces in the fight against terrorism and banditry."
The group urged stakeholders, including NWAS, to demonstrate caution and restraint in making statements that could hinder the collective fight against insecurity.
"We call on all stakeholders to work together to find lasting solutions. Rather than advocating for removal, NWAS should propose technical and professional solutions to the security challenges facing the region."
The statement also highlighted what the NSNCM sees as Minister Badaru Abubakar’s significant achievements compared to some of his predecessors.
"In our view, the Minister’s performance and achievements are more pronounced than those of some of his predecessors. Similarly, the efforts of the service chiefs under the leadership of General Christopher Gwabin Musa, Chief of Defence Staff, should be acknowledged and encouraged."
The group commended the Defence Ministry’s initiatives, such as increased troop deployments, targeted operations to dismantle terrorist networks, and community-based engagement strategies to build trust and improve intelligence gathering.
The NSNCM also noted the Ministry’s collaboration with international partners to boost security capabilities and tackle the underlying causes of violence in the region.
"We urge President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to continue supporting the Ministry of Defence and other security agencies in addressing the country's security challenges. We also call on NWAS to reconsider their stance and focus on constructive contributions toward regional peace and stability."
The statement concluded with a reaffirmation of NSNCM’s commitment to promoting peace, security, and development.
"Through collective effort and responsible leadership, we believe that Nigeria can overcome its current challenges and achieve a brighter future for all citizens."
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