Banigo Owen
The Northern Awareness Network (NAN) strongly condemns the baseless and morally indefensible accusations from the Katsina Elders Forum against Defence Ministers Badaru Abubakar and Bello Mohammed Matawalle.
This unwarranted criticism stands in stark contrast to the evident successes achieved in the ongoing fight against insecurity across the nation under their diligent stewardship.
In a statement issued by its spokesperson, Salihu Suleiman, the NAN highlighted the commendable progress made by the military forces under President Bola Tinubu’s administration, with essential support from Defence Ministers Abubakar and Matawalle.
The Network’s statement underscores the significant strides taken towards enhancing national security, which must not be overshadowed by politically motivated narratives.
“The Northern Awareness Network finds it morally wrong and unacceptable that the Katsina Elders Forum would accuse Ministers Badaru Abubakar and Bello Mohammed Matawalle of inaction,” said Salihu Suleiman in the statement.
“Such allegations not only unjustly undermine the tireless efforts and sacrifices of our defence officials but also politicise the sensitive issue of national security.”
Under President Tinubu’s leadership, there have been comprehensive and strategic military operations that have led to notable reductions in threats and violence across various regions.
The collaboration between the presidency and the defence ministry has been instrumental in stabilising areas that were previously fraught with insecurity.
The NAN emphasized that attempts to downplay these achievements are counterproductive and detrimental to the unity and progress of the country. The group called upon the Katsina Elders and other stakeholders to refrain from politicising security issues and instead unite to support ongoing efforts to ensure peace and stability.
“Security is a collective responsibility that transcends political affiliations. We call on the Katsina Elders Forum to recognize the progress made and to work collaboratively with government bodies to further these gains, rather than undermine them with unfounded accusations,” Salihu Suleiman added.
The Northern Awareness Network remains steadfast in its support for the current administration’s security strategies and urges all citizens to look beyond political differences and prioritize the overarching goal of a safer and more secure Nigeria.