Lawyers Tell New Defence Minister: Deliver Fast, Fight Smart, Restore Security
By TINA TOLUTOPE
SENIOR lawyers and rights advocates have outlined a clear, urgent agenda for Nigeria’s new Minister of Defence, General Christopher Musa (Rtd.), urging him to move quickly and decisively to confront the nation’s worsening insecurity.
General Musa—formerly Chief of Defence Staff—was sworn in after the resignation of his predecessor, Badaru Abubakar, who stepped down due to health challenges. Speaking after his inauguration, Musa pledged swift improvements in national security, vowing to strengthen synergy among security agencies and restore public confidence so Nigerians can “sleep with their eyes closed,” return to their farms, and send their children to school safely.
With a military career spanning over three decades, Musa brings extensive operational experience. He previously commanded key counterterrorism operations, led the Multinational Joint Task Force, and served as Theatre Commander of Operation Hadin Kai in the Northeast. His leadership roles across the Army have been widely acknowledged, including receiving the Colin Powell Award for Soldiering.
Prominent legal figures say his background places national expectations squarely on his shoulders. Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN) Mike Ahamba urged him to aggressively dismantle bandit networks, especially those hiding in forests, arguing that Nigerians expect insecurity to end under his watch. Constitutional lawyer Mike Ozekhome (SAN) called for the deployment of advanced technology—drones, surveillance systems, and modern warfare tools—while demanding better equipment, welfare, and discipline within the armed forces.
Human-rights lawyer Kabir Akingbolu stressed that experience alone is not enough, insisting that Musa must demonstrate political will, end the reintegration of hardened criminals into security structures, expose sponsors of terrorism, and abandon negotiations with criminal groups. He also urged the adoption of tech-driven strategies and tougher penalties for terror financiers.
Lagos-based lawyer Ige Asemudara said Musa must show results within three months by reducing violence nationwide and restoring stability before mid-2026. He emphasised improved soldier welfare, disciplined leadership, stronger intelligence frameworks, and strict oversight of military resources.
Across the board, the message to the new minister is the same: act fast, act boldly, and use every tool—technology, intelligence, and experience—to bring Nigeria back from the brink.
