City Beats
A northern youth group on Thursday launched a scathing attack on activist and former presidential candidate, Omoyele Sowore, accusing him of cyber-bullying and reckless comments against the Minister of Defence, Gen. Christopher Gwabin Musa (Rtd).
The group, Northern Nigeria United Youths for Peace and Progress, said Sowore’s recent remarks against the minister were irresponsible and aimed at attracting political attention ahead of the 2027 elections.
Addressing a press conference in Kaduna on Thursday, the group said Sowore’s comments showed a lack of maturity and respect for national leaders at a time Nigeria is battling serious security challenges.
Speaking at the briefing, the Convener of the group, Edward John Auta, said the activist’s repeated attacks on public officials amounted to cyber-bullying, name-calling and character assassination.
According to him, such statements are capable of undermining national unity and weakening public confidence in security institutions.
The group specifically condemned Sowore for allegedly describing the Defence Minister as “the most foolish person to be made a minister,” insisting that such language does not reflect the values expected of Nigerian youths.
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It said General Musa’s record in the military and his leadership in the fight against insecurity earned him national recognition and respect across the country.
The group also claimed that the security sector recorded significant improvements under the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, particularly during Musa’s tenure as Chief of Defence Staff.
It added that the former service chief strengthened troop morale, promoted inter-agency collaboration and adopted community-based strategies aimed at tackling terrorism and banditry.
While dismissing criticisms from some northern figures, including Ambassador Abdul Dan Bature, the youths said such individuals do not represent the position of the region’s young population.
The group therefore demanded that Sowore retract his comments and tender a public apology to the Defence Minister, whom it described as a patriotic officer committed to Nigeria’s stability.
It also urged Nigerian youths to promote constructive engagement with leaders rather than insults, stressing that national unity and cooperation remain critical to overcoming insecurity in the country.