By Ibrahim Hassan-Wuyo

A coalition of socio-cultural and professional groups from Southern Kaduna has clarified that it does not support calls for Defence Minister General Christopher Gwabin Musa to be considered as a running mate to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in the 2027 presidential election.

The coalition emphasized that remarks made by the President of the Southern Kaduna United People’s Association (SOKAPUA), Engr. Samuel Tabara Kato, reflect his personal views and do not represent the collective position of Southern Kaduna.

Speaking at a press briefing in Kaduna on Monday, coalition leaders—including 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 (SKPF), and youth and community representatives—expressed concern over the timing of the remarks.

They described the suggestion as inappropriate, given the recent abduction of over 170 residents of Kurmin Wali in Kajuru Local Government Area.

“The timing of this call is troubling. Discussions about a presidential running mate should not take place while families and communities are still dealing with the trauma of mass abductions,” the coalition said.

While recognizing General Musa as “an astute and credible Army General,” the group stressed that his current focus should remain on national security, collaborating with President Tinubu and Vice President Kashim Shettima to address the country’s security challenges.

The coalition also commended Kaduna State Governor Senator Uba Sani for his swift response to the Kurmin Wali incident, including the deployment of security personnel and the construction of an access road, which helped residents resume Sunday worship within a week.

Reaffirming their political stance, the coalition expressed support for President Tinubu, Vice President Shettima, and Governor Sani, and urged Nigerians to disregard what it termed “unwarranted and divisive statements” that could distract the Defence Minister from his responsibilities.

The group called for national unity and a focus on security, cautioning that premature political speculation could undermine stability and public confidence.