Defence Minister Denies Resignation, Vows to Sue Rumour Peddlers

Minister of Defence, General Christopher Musa (retd.), has dismissed reports claiming he resigned from office, describing the information as false and announcing plans to take legal action against those responsible for spreading it. He made this known on Tuesday after meeting with President Bola Tinubu at the Presidential Villa in Abuja.

Musa said he had never discussed leaving his position and was surprised by the reports circulating about his alleged resignation. According to him, those behind the claim would be identified and made to explain the source of the information through legal means.

The Defence Minister explained that his meeting with President Tinubu was a routine briefing on the country’s security situation and had nothing to do with his position in government. He said the President expressed satisfaction with the efforts of the armed forces and encouraged them to continue their operations against insecurity.

Musa maintained that security conditions across the country are improving and said the rumours were likely spread by people unhappy with the progress being recorded. He added that such reports were intended to create doubt about the government’s efforts in tackling terrorism, banditry and other security threats.

He also thanked Nigerians for their support, saying the fight against insecurity requires cooperation between security agencies and the public. He noted that the assistance received from citizens has helped ongoing military operations and expressed confidence that the situation would continue to improve.

The minister urged Nigerians to remain supportive of the armed forces and other security agencies as they continue operations across the country. He said public cooperation remains necessary in achieving lasting peace and stability.

Christopher Musa was appointed Minister of Defence by President Tinubu in December 2025 after serving as Chief of Defence Staff from July 2023. His latest remarks put to rest reports suggesting he had stepped down from office.