Birnin kebbi: The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), Gen. Christopher Musa, has issued a stern warning that those who undermine the sovereignty and unity of Nigeria will be regarded as enemies of the state. Musa delivered this declaration during his address to the General Assembly of the Northern Traditional Rulers’ Council (NTRC) at a forum titled ‘Kebbi 2025: Strengthening Community Collaboration for Lasting Peace and Security in Northern Nigeria.’
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Gen. Musa emphasized the commitment of the Armed Forces of Nigeria to defend the country’s territorial integrity. He urged all Nigerians to come together in safeguarding peace and stability. “Anyone found doing anything negative against the government and the sovereignty of Nigeria is an enemy of the state, and we will go after such person,” Musa announced.
The CDS also praised the Sultan of Sokoto and other northern traditional rulers for their ongoing efforts in promoting peace, unity, and stability within the region. He highlighted the indispensable role of traditional rulers as custodians of values and moral standards, crucial to ensuring stability in both the North and the entire nation. Musa stressed that peace and security are built through trust, dialogue, and cooperation among communities, security agencies, traditional institutions, and civil society groups.
Further, the CDS urged the armed forces to act decisively against criminals threatening lives and property, stating, “No member of the armed forces should tell you he has not been ordered to take down any criminal killing or destroying property. You are authorised to act.”
Musa reassured Nigerians of the military’s dedication to protecting democracy, noting that President Bola Tinubu has been supportive of the armed forces. The Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Sa’ad Abubakar III, emphasized the importance of addressing the security challenges in the North and announced plans to present a communiqu© to northern governors.
The Sultan called on Nigerians to support rather than criticize the military, acknowledging their crucial role despite challenges. He also highlighted the need for social media regulation to prevent the spread of false and harmful information. Meanwhile, the Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, Sen. Atiku Bagudu, praised security agencies for their sacrifices and urged citizens to support them.
Gov. Nasir Idris of Kebbi acknowledged the traditional rulers’ contributions to strengthening security, peace, and unity in the country. The event, held at the Presidential Lodge in Birnin Kebbi, brought together traditional rulers, senior government officials, security chiefs, and community leaders to discuss strategies for lasting peace and security in the region.