Defence Minister gets vote of no confidence over killings in Plateau, Benue

The Minister of Defence, Mohammad Badaru Abubakar, has received a vote of no confidence following rising insecurity in the country, particularly the renewed hostilities in Benue and Plateau states, where dozens have been killed in multiple attacks.

The North West Development Vanguard (NWDV) criticised Badaru for the security disturbances across the country, calling for his immediate dismissal due to what it describes as gross incompetence and political opportunism amid escalating security crises in Benue and Plateau states.

This is contained in a statement jointly signed by its President, Comrade Aminu Sani, and Secretary, Alhaji Bala Mohammed, on Thursday, April 24, 2025, condemning the minister’s handling of the deteriorating security situation in the country.

“The Minister of Defence, Mohammed Badaru Abubakar, has failed in his primary responsibility to safeguard the lives and properties of Nigerians. His continued stay in office is a threat to national security and a betrayal of the trust reposed in him by the Nigerian people,” the statement reads.

The group highlighted recent attacks in the two North-Central states, where armed assailants have wreaked havoc on local communities.

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The NWDV noted that in Benue State, at least 50 persons were killed in separate attacks on Katsina-Ala and Logo Local Government Areas, with reports indicating that over 300 armed men, suspected to be militia from outside Nigeria, were involved in the assaults.

Similarly, in Plateau State, over 100 people were killed in multiple attacks across Mangu and Bokkos Local Government Areas.

“These attacks are not isolated incidents but part of a broader pattern of insecurity that the Minister of Defence has consistently failed to address. His lack of proactive measures and failure to coordinate an effective response have emboldened these criminal elements,” the statement added.

Badary is accused of pursuing personal ambitions

The group further accused the Minister of neglecting his duty to ensure national security and instead pursuing personal political ambitions.

“Instead of focusing on his duties, the Minister is busy engaging in political activities aimed at positioning himself for the 2027 presidential elections. This is a clear indication that he is more interested in power than in the safety and well-being of Nigerians,” the group said.

The NWDV called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to take immediate action by relieving Badaru of his duties.

“The President must act decisively to restore public confidence in the government’s ability to protect its citizens. Sacking the Minister of Defence is a necessary step towards demonstrating that incompetence and negligence will not be tolerated under his watch,” it added.

In addition to the call for dismissal, the NWDV demanded a comprehensive review of the country’s security architecture.

“There is an urgent need to reassess and restructure our security apparatus to ensure a more effective response to the challenges we face. This includes better intelligence gathering, increased funding for security agencies, and enhanced collaboration among all stakeholders.”

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The group also appealed to civil society organisations, religious leaders, and the international community to join in advocating for improved security measures in Nigeria.

“The fight against insecurity is a collective responsibility. We must all work together to ensure that our communities are safe and that those responsible for protecting us are held accountable.”

The group warned that unless those overseeing national security are held accountable, the bloodshed will persist and public trust in government will continue to deteriorate.