Ethics Vanguard, a pro-transparency and accountability non-governmental organisation (NGO), has called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to immediately dismiss the Minister of Defence, Mohammed Badaru Abubakar, over what it described as gross incompetence in tackling Nigeria’s escalating insecurity.
The group disclosed plans to collaborate with over 120 civil society organisations to organise nationwide protests if Badaru is not removed within 14 working days. It threatened to lead demonstrations at the Ministry of Defence, the National Assembly Complex, and other government locations to demand accountability and effective leadership.
In a statement issued yesterday by its Executive Director, Miss Amina Mohammed, the group expressed outrage at the deteriorating security situation under Badaru’s leadership. It decried the daily violence inflicted on Nigerians by terrorists, bandits, kidnappers, and armed militias, which it said the minister has failed to address effectively.
Ethics Vanguard also commended Solomon Maren, the lawmaker representing Mangu/Bokkos Federal Constituency in Plateau State, for speaking out against what it termed the Defence Ministry’s ineffectiveness in safeguarding lives and property.
The group urged President Tinubu to appoint a competent and proactive defence strategist to revitalise Nigeria’s counterterrorism efforts, criticising Badaru’s appointment as a misplaced priority. It argued that the role of Defence Minister requires a candidate with a proven track record of merit and experience.
Highlighting the need for decisive leadership, the organisation accused Badaru of failing to implement strategic policies, reform defence procurement systems, or execute necessary reforms. These failures, it argued, have created a morale crisis within the military and exacerbated insecurity across the country.
Ethics Vanguard also called on the Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, and the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abbas, to pass a bipartisan vote of no confidence in the Defence Minister, urging President Tinubu to replace him promptly.
Ethics Vanguard criticised the government’s silence on recent massacres in Plateau State, describing the insecurity as a national emergency requiring urgent attention. The group vowed to maintain pressure until the federal government appoints a capable Defence Minister who prioritises national security over political interests.
