By Austine Agbo Emmanuel
The Citizens Support for Good Governance (CSGG) has cautioned against what it described as the growing politicisation of Nigeria’s security challenges, warning that the Minister of Defence, Gen. Christopher Musa Gwabin, is increasingly being targeted in narratives driven by political interests.
The group raised the concern while reacting to recent attacks in parts of Northern Nigeria, including the March 27 incident in Angwan Rukuba, Jos, and reported violence in Kagarko, Kaduna State.
It expressed sympathy with victims and affected communities, stressing that national tragedies should unite citizens rather than be exploited for political advantage.
In a statement jointly signed by its National Coordinator, Dr. Olumide Olayinka Adeosun, and Director of Media and Public Affairs, Hon. Victor Mathew Bobai, the group acknowledged the frustration among Nigerians over persistent insecurity.
However, it warned that attributing the country’s complex security challenges to a single individual could undermine public understanding and weaken confidence in security institutions.
The group noted that while concerns raised by public figures reflect genuine national anxiety, there appears to be a pattern of selective criticism directed at the Defence Minister despite the institutional nature of Nigeria’s security architecture.
It cautioned that weaponising public sentiment for political purposes could embolden criminal elements and hinder ongoing security operations.
CSGG maintained that Gen. Musa remains committed to addressing insecurity through both immediate tactical responses and long-term strategic reforms aimed at restoring stability.
It added that security agencies have recorded successes, including disrupting criminal networks, rescuing kidnapped victims, and preventing attacks through intelligence-led coordination.
Calling for a more balanced national discourse, the group urged political leaders and stakeholders to avoid divisive rhetoric and support collaborative efforts to tackle insecurity.
It emphasised that Nigeria’s security challenges require collective responsibility, patience, and sustained cooperation.
Commenting further, public affairs analyst, Hon. Victor Bobai, said criticisms directed at the Defence Minister should be viewed within a broader political context.
He argued that Nigeria’s political space often witnesses the targeting of key public officials through narratives influenced by competing interests.
Bobai added that Gen. Musa appears to be facing a similar situation amid speculations about his rising profile, noting that such narratives could distract from his core responsibility of safeguarding the nation.
The group also highlighted systemic challenges, including resource constraints, internal sabotage, and media pressure, which continue to complicate security operations.
It warned that as the country approaches another election cycle, attempts to politicise insecurity may intensify.
CSGG reaffirmed that while public scrutiny remains vital in a democracy, it must be guided by facts, fairness, and national interest.
It called on Nigerians and the media to adopt a constructive approach that supports security institutions while holding them accountable without undermining morale.
The group reiterated its support for ongoing military operations and urged citizens to remain vigilant and united in efforts to build a safer nation.