A coalition of socio-cultural and professional groups from Southern Kaduna has distanced the region from recent calls proposing the Minister of Defence, General Christopher Gwabin Musa, as a potential running mate to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in the 2027 general elections.
The coalition’s position follows remarks by the President of the Southern Kaduna United People’s Association (SOKAPUA), Engr. Samuel Tabara Kato, who commended President Tinubu for his attention to Southern Kaduna, particularly the appointment of General Musa as Defence Minister, and suggested that the region should support him for the vice-presidential slot.
Briefing journalists in Kaduna on Monday, representatives of the coalition said Engr. Tabara’s comments were purely personal and did not reflect the collective stance of the people of Southern Kaduna. Those present at the briefing included Dr. Simon Majimre of the Southern Kaduna Community Development Associations, Edward John Auta, Chairman of Southern Kaduna Patriots for Good Governance, the Acting Chairman of the Southern Kaduna Professionals Forum, the National Coordinator of the Forum of SOKAPU Youths, and chairmen of several local groups.
The coalition emphasized that the call for a vice-presidential ticket was not preceded by broad consultations with stakeholders in the zone and therefore lacks legitimacy. They also described the timing of the call as insensitive, noting that Southern Kaduna is still grappling with the trauma of the recent abduction of over 170 persons in Kurmin Wali.
According to the group, it is inappropriate to engage in political positioning while affected communities continue to suffer, stressing that leadership attention should remain focused on addressing insecurity and rescuing abducted victims.
The coalition reiterated that General Musa’s immediate responsibility is national security, working closely with the President and Vice President to combat insecurity across the country. While acknowledging him as a credible and experienced Army General, they insisted that his mandate should not be politicized.
The group also commended Kaduna State Governor, Senator Uba Sani, for his swift intervention in Kurmin Wali, including the deployment of additional security personnel and infrastructure support that reportedly restored access to the area.
The coalition reaffirmed its support for President Tinubu, Vice President Kashim Shettima, and Governor Uba Sani, and urged Nigerians to avoid divisive narratives that could distract the Defence Minister or destabilize the polity.
