Defence Ministry Dismisses Resignation Rumours, Says Minister Remains Focused on National Security

The Office of the Honourable Minister of Defence has firmly dismissed widespread rumours suggesting that the Minister, General Christopher Gwabin Musa (Rtd), OFR, is planning to resign from office, describing the reports as completely false, misleading and the handiwork of mischief makers.

In a public disclaimer issued on Monday, the Ministry said its attention had been drawn to what it described as a coordinated wave of fabricated reports circulating across social media platforms and online channels alleging that the Defence Minister had expressed an intention to step down from his position.

The Ministry stated that there was no truth whatsoever in the claims and urged Nigerians to disregard the reports in their entirety.

According to the statement, General Musa remains fully committed to the responsibilities entrusted to him and continues to provide leadership in the implementation of the Federal Government’s defence and national security agenda.

“We wish to state unequivocally and in the strongest possible terms that these rumours are absolute falsehoods borne out of complete mischief,” the statement declared.

The Ministry stressed that the retired General remains actively engaged in coordinating defence policies and supporting ongoing efforts aimed at strengthening national security, combating terrorism, banditry, kidnapping and other security challenges confronting the country.

Officials noted that the Minister remains focused on delivering results in line with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s security objectives and has not at any time indicated any intention to relinquish his position.

“General Christopher Gwabin Musa (Rtd) remains fully focused on his national security mandate, deeply committed to his duties and completely dedicated to piloting the nation’s defence strategy, with results already being seen,” the statement added.

The disclaimer comes amid intensified military operations across several parts of the country and growing efforts by security agencies to restore peace and stability in troubled regions.

The Ministry warned media organisations, bloggers and social media users against the dissemination of unverified information capable of creating confusion and undermining public confidence in government institutions.

It urged journalists and members of the public to seek clarification from official sources before publishing or sharing sensitive information relating to national security matters.

“The general public is hereby urged to completely disregard this fake news. We strongly advise media outlets and internet users to desist from spreading unverified information and seek clarifications from the appropriate authorities,” the statement stated.

The Ministry reiterated its commitment to transparency and responsible communication, assuring Nigerians that any official development concerning the leadership of the Ministry would always be communicated through recognised government channels.

The statement was signed by Leah Katung-Babatunde, Special Assistant on Media to the Honourable Minister of Defence.