By Israel Bulus, Kaduna
A coalition of socio-cultural and professional groups from Southern Kaduna has distanced the region from calls suggesting General Christopher Gwabin Musa be considered as a running mate to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in the 2027 elections.
The clarification comes in response to remarks by Engr. Samuel Tabara Kato, President of the Southern Kaduna United People’s Association (SOKAPUA), who had praised President Tinubu for his attention to Southern Kaduna, particularly the appointment of General Musa as Minister of Defence, and suggested that the region supports him for the vice-presidency.
Speaking at a press conference in Kaduna on Monday, representatives of the coalition, including Dr. Simon Majimre of the Southern Kaduna Community Development Associations, Edward John Auta, Chairman of Southern Kaduna Patriots for Good Governance, the Acting Chairman of the Southern Kaduna Professionals Forum (SKPF), and leaders of youth and local community groups, emphasized that Mr. Tabara’s statement reflects his personal view and not the collective opinion of Southern Kaduna.
“The timing of this call is equally troubling,” the coalition said, referencing the recent abduction of over 170 persons in Kurmin Wali. “No responsible leadership should focus on a presidential running mate while families and communities continue to endure such anguish.”
While acknowledging General Musa as “an astute and credible Army General,” the coalition stressed that his immediate responsibility remains national security, working alongside the President and Vice President to address the ongoing challenges in the country.
The group also commended Kaduna State Governor, Senator Uba Sani, for his swift response in Kurmin Wali, including the deployment of security personnel and construction of an access road, which reportedly allowed the community to resume Sunday worship barely a week after the abduction.
The coalition further stated, “Southern Kaduna is united in supporting President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Vice President Kashim Shettima, and Governor Uba Sani against the unwarranted statement made by Mr. Tabara. We stand firmly behind the Minister of Defence to deliver on his mandate of fighting insecurity as entrusted to him by the President and the Nigerian people.”
Finally, the coalition called on Nigerians to avoid spreading divisive narratives that could distract the Defence Minister or destabilize the polity, emphasizing that unity and focus on national security are paramount.
