The Minister of Defence, General Christopher Musa (Rtd), has stated that the South-East region of Nigeria experienced a noticeably calmer and safer Christmas celebration following the arrest of separatist agitator, Simon Ekpa. According to the defence minister, the security improvement recorded during the festive period highlighted the impact of decisive law enforcement actions against individuals whose activities threaten public peace. He explained that the absence of violent disruptions during Christmas was a clear indication that firm security measures can restore stability when properly enforced. General Musa made this known while speaking on Prime Time, a programme aired on Arise Television on Thursday. During the interview, he recalled that concerns surrounding Simon Ekpa’s actions had previously been openly discussed on public platforms, with repeated calls for his arrest due to the alleged role he played in escalating insecurity in the South-East. The former defence chief emphasized that the situation reinforced an important national principle — that no individual is above the law. He warned that anyone who deliberately crosses legal boundaries or incites unrest should expect a lawful response from the appropriate authorities. Musa further noted that the federal government remains firm in its commitment to protecting lives and property across all regions of the country. He stressed that whenever actions pose a threat to national security or public order, the government will not hesitate to act decisively. Reflecting on the outcome of Ekpa’s arrest, the minister stated that the peaceful atmosphere witnessed during the last Christmas season in the South-East served as strong evidence that enforcing the rule of law can significantly reduce tension and restore confidence among residents. In his words, he explained that discussions on Simon Ekpa’s activities and the necessity of arresting him had previously taken place, and once the arrest was carried out, the region saw a marked improvement in security. He reiterated that government authority must be respected, adding that crossing established red lines would always attract appropriate legal consequences.
Nigeria is currently undergoing a difficult phase marked by multiple security threats, but the country will ultimately prevail. This assurance was given by the Minister of Defence, General Christopher Musa (retd.), who described the situation as a national trial that requires collective resilience and faith. The Defence Minister spoke during a thanksgiving interdenominational church service in Abuja, organized as part of activities to commemorate the 2026 Armed Forces Celebration and Remembrance Day at the National Christian Centre. According to him, Nigeria is confronted with serious security concerns including terrorism, banditry, kidnapping, and other criminal activities across different regions. Despite these challenges, he emphasized that the nation is not without hope, stressing that the Armed Forces, the Nigeria Police, and other security agencies remain steadfast and committed to protecting the country. He noted that personnel across the security sector have demonstrated exceptional courage, sacrifice, and determination in the face of danger, assuring Nigerians that these efforts will not be in vain. The minister explained that the gathering was not only a time of worship but also an opportunity for reflection and remembrance. He stated that Nigerians across the 36 states had gathered in churches as people of faith and purpose, trusting in divine promises and national restoration. He paid glowing tribute to fallen military personnel who lost their lives while defending the nation, describing their sacrifices as unforgettable and permanently engraved in Nigeria’s history. He also commended serving officers and their families, particularly spouses who continue to shoulder responsibilities at home while their loved ones serve on the frontlines. The Defence Minister reassured military families that their welfare remains a top priority for the government, adding that they would not be forgotten. He further disclosed that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu remains committed to strengthening the Armed Forces and other security agencies by ensuring they are adequately equipped, properly motivated, and well cared for. According to him, the President’s actions clearly demonstrate the value he places on service, sacrifice, and national security. The minister offered prayers for divine wisdom and strength for the President as he continues to lead the country through challenging times, while also expressing deep appreciation to security personnel for their unwavering dedication to keeping Nigeria safe. Cleric Warns Against Coups, Urges Military to Defend Democracy Also speaking at the event, Most Rev. Uche Dan Okafor, who delivered the sermon, made a strong appeal to members of the Armed Forces to remain loyal to democratic governance and resist any temptation to interfere in Nigeria’s democracy. Addressing the Chief of Defence Staff, General Olufemi Oluyede, and other service chiefs, the cleric urged them to stand firmly in defence of constitutional order, especially as Nigeria approaches the 2027 general elections. He acknowledged that insecurity across the country has been discouraging for many citizens but encouraged the military not to lose heart. He reminded them that their duty goes beyond national service, describing their efforts against terrorism, banditry, kidnapping, and criminality as service to God, who condemns such vices. According to him, Nigeria is entering a new phase where the tide will turn against insecurity. He expressed strong optimism that terrorists, bandits, kidnappers, and their sponsors would soon be exposed and defeated. He urged the Armed Forces to remain politically neutral as elections draw closer and cautioned against the growing trend of military coups across parts of West Africa. He specifically warned against following the path taken by countries such as Mali, Burkina Faso, Niger, and Guinea, where democratically elected governments were recently overthrown. The cleric emphasized that Nigeria must not be drawn into similar instability and encouraged the military to uphold professionalism and national unity. Senate President Reaffirms Legislative Support for Security Meanwhile, Senate President Godswill Akpabio reaffirmed the commitment of the National Assembly to working closely with the Executive arm of government to restore Nigeria’s peace and security. Represented by the Deputy Chief Whip, Senator Peter Nwebonyi, Akpabio stated that the sacrifices of both fallen and living members of the Armed Forces have strengthened the nation’s resolve to build a safer, stronger, and more united Nigeria. He described the blood of fallen heroes and heroines as the foundation of national unity, peace, and progress, noting that their sacrifices continue to shape the country’s future. The Senate President highlighted Nigeria’s diversity, describing the country as one of the most linguistically diverse nations globally, united under one flag despite religious and cultural differences. He emphasized that the Nigerian Constitution guarantees freedom of religion, worship, and conscience, describing these freedoms as essential pillars of democracy that must be safeguarded at all times. He concluded by stating that history would judge leaders not merely by their words but by their actions, urging all stakeholders to make decisions today that would secure a better future for generations to come.
