The Patriots for the Advancement of Peace and Social Development (PAPSD) has congratulated a former Chief of Defence Staff, Retired Gen. Christopher Musa, on his appointment as Minister of Defence.
The Executive Director of PAPSD, Dr Sani Shinkafi, in a statement in Abuja on Thursday, described Musa’s appointment as well-deserved.
Shinkafi also described Musa’s appointment as the right choice at this critical stage in the fight against insecurity in the country.
He commended President Bola Tinubu for Musa’s choice, stating that it demonstrated his resolve and unwavering commitment to crushing terrorism and armed bandits in the country.
According to him, Musa’s national acceptance is an eloquent testimony to his patriotism, professionalism, integrity and tenacity of purpose, positioning him to win the war against terrorism, insurgency, banditry and other criminal activities.
The PAPSD director also lauded recent presidential actions, including the appointments of new service chiefs and the declaration of a state of emergency in security.
He stated the order to recruit 50,000 personnel into the armed forces and the withdrawal of police personnel attached to VIPs were also giant steps to combating insecurity across the country.
Shinkafi, however, called for immediate scrapping of the office of Minister of State for Defence, saying it was not only unnecessary but also aberration in military command.
According to him, having two ministers can result in a parallel administration, which is counterproductive, especially during severe national security challenges.
Shinkafi, while highlighting several key national security areas that were currently split, said that security experts were in accord that the office should be scrapped.
He wondered why Badaru Abubakar, a chartered accountant and Bello Matawalle would be appointed Minster of Defence and Minister of State for Defence respectively in the first instance, saying that they both lack security background.
Shinkafi argued that their lack of experience in complex security issues had grossly affected the fight against terrorism, national security and order.
He stated that a defence minister, considering the ministry’s functions, including framing of policies, administering the armed forces and ensuring protection of the country’s territorial integrity, must have a track record in military service like the former chief of defence staff.
He urged Nigerians to support the president, Musa and security agencies in their quest to ensure national security, safety, unity, and prosperity, in line with the constitutional provision that security and welfare of the people shall be the primary purpose of government.
(NAN)
