Reported by: Oahimire Omone Precious | Edited by: Gabriel Osa
Nigeria’s Defence Minister-designate has directed a comprehensive and uncompromising probe into two troubling security incidents that have sparked widespread concern across the country—the death of a senior military general in Maiduguri and the reported withdrawal of troops shortly before the abduction of students in Kebbi State.
In a statement released on Tuesday, he described both events as “disturbing and unacceptable,” stressing that the nation deserves clarity on why such tragedies occurred under circumstances that raise serious operational and ethical questions. He pledged that his stewardship of the defence sector would begin on a foundation of accountability, transparency and strict adherence to military protocols.
Speaking on the situation in Maiduguri, the minister-designate noted that the loss of a top-ranking officer in an active conflict environment cannot be treated as a routine occurrence. He emphasized that the exact conditions under which the general died must be established beyond speculation. According to him, there is no room for assumptions in matters involving the life of a senior commander, especially in a region that continues to grapple with insurgency threats. He explained that investigators would examine every angle—whether the incident was a result of operational mishap, internal security breach or a targeted assault—until the truth is uncovered. He assured the public that the findings would be made known in due course, underscoring his commitment to ensuring that the military’s internal processes do not shield wrongdoing or incompetence.
Turning to the Kebbi incident, he expressed deep concern over reports that soldiers stationed near the affected school were withdrawn only hours before armed bandits invaded the community and abducted students. He described the sequence of events as “highly suspicious” and insisted that the decision-making process leading to the withdrawal must be scrutinized. He questioned why troops were removed from an area known to be vulnerable and why no immediate replacement or alternative security arrangement was activated to protect civilians. He maintained that if evidence shows lapses in judgment, negligence or deliberate compromise, those responsible would face firm disciplinary measures.
The minister-designate stressed that events such as these weaken public confidence in Nigeria’s security system and highlight the need for stronger coordination, improved intelligence management and more consistent deployment strategies. He promised to strengthen early-warning mechanisms in vulnerable communities and ensure that similar incidents are prevented through better planning and uninterrupted security presence in high-risk areas.
He reassured citizens—particularly families affected by the Maiduguri and Kebbi tragedies—that the investigations will not be superficial. According to him, the era when sensitive security matters were ignored or allowed to fade into silence is over. He insisted that justice, truth and institutional reform will guide his actions as he prepares to assume office.
“Every Nigerian life is important. Every soldier represents a national commitment. And every security failure demands honest answers,” he said, urging the public to trust that the outcome of the inquiries will reflect a new resolve to hold the defence sector to the highest standards.
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