Maiduguri bombings: Group rejects calls for Defence Minister’s resignation

The Oodua Youth Parliament (OYP) has expressed concern over a statement issued by the African Action Congress (AAC) l, calling for the resignation of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the Minister of Defence, General Christopher Gwabin Musa, following the recent bombings in Maiduguri, Borno State.

In a statement signed by its Speaker, Hon. Aare Abdulmajeed Oladimeji Oyeniyi, the youth parliament acknowledged the tragic nature of the incident, which resulted in loss of lives and injuries, while extending condolences to victims and their families.

The statement reads: “Our hearts go out to the victims and their families. We condemn this act of terrorism in the strongest possible terms,” Oyeniyi stated. “We also recognise the sacrifices and ongoing efforts of our security agencies and first responders who continue to work tirelessly to protect citizens and contain the situation.”

OYP described terrorism as an attack against humanity and society, stressing that perpetrators of such violence must face justice through lawful and coordinated security operations.

The youth parliament emphasised the importance of collective national efforts in addressing Nigeria’s complex security challenges, noting that sustainable solutions require cooperation among government institutions, political actors, civil society organisations, and citizens.

It expressed concern that certain public reactions to the Maiduguri incident appeared to shift focus toward political considerations rather than constructive engagement with underlying security challenges.

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According to OYP, national tragedies should not become platforms for political contestation but opportunities for unity and coordinated action.

The youth body reacted to a publication titled “Maiduguri Bombings: AAC Party Asks Tinubu, Defence Minister Musa To Tender Resignation For Incompetence”, describing the narrative as a distraction from ongoing efforts to confront insecurity.

OYP noted that inaccuracies contained in the discourse, including references that mischaracterise the current role of the Defence Minister, risk creating public misunderstanding about Nigeria’s security structure and institutional responsibilities.

The Parliament explained that the Ministry of Defence primarily provides administrative coordination, defence policy direction, strategic planning, and institutional oversight for Nigeria’s armed forces, while operational military engagements are carried out through established command structures.

It warned that calls for resignation without addressing systemic security realities could create instability at a time when continuity and institutional coordination are essential.

“Security reform is a gradual and collective process. Abrupt leadership disruptions may create gaps that could complicate ongoing reforms and operations,” the statement noted.

OYP reaffirmed its commitment to partnering with government institutions, youth organisations, and community stakeholders to promote peace, unity, and national security awareness across the country.

The Parliament urged Nigerians to remain calm and continue supporting security agencies through cooperation and credible intelligence sharing.

“We will continue to engage stakeholders and support initiatives that strengthen national security and public awareness. Nigerians must stand united against terrorism and violence,” it added.