The Ashlee Momoh Foundation has urged Nigerians, political stakeholders and the media to de-escalate the controversy surrounding remarks attributed to the Minister of Defence, retired General Christopher Musa, during a recent interview on Channels Television.
The Foundation, in a statement by its Chief Executive Officer, Princess Ashlee Omonegho Momoh, expressed concern over what it described as the wave of backlash and heated reactions that followed comments attributed to the Defence Minister concerning a former governor.
According to the Foundation, the remarks have been interpreted differently by sections of the public, particularly in Northern Nigeria, with the ensuing reactions capable of heightening political and ethnic tensions.
Momoh called for restraint, dialogue and a renewed commitment to national unity, urging Nigerians not to allow disagreements over statements that could be clarified through dialogue to overshadow broader national interests.
“At this critical time in our national life, what Nigeria needs most is unity, not division,” she said.
“Nigerians should focus more on uniting one another, because it is only in unity that we will unveil the true beauty of our diversity, thereby sustaining our national development.
“We must tread with caution and not allow politically motivated narratives to distract us from the bigger picture of securing our nation.”
She further appealed to Nigerians to allow room for constructive engagement rather than intensifying tensions over statements whose context or meaning could be clarified.
“We should not be quick to heat the polity over statements that can be clarified through dialogue. Let us give room for constructive engagement rather than fanning the embers of discord,” Momoh said.
The Foundation also expressed support for Musa, commending what it described as his resilience, professionalism and efforts since assuming office as Defence Minister.
Momoh said Musa had brought his experience as a former Chief of Defence Staff to bear on his current assignment, adding that his dedication to national security should be encouraged.
She further claimed that the Ministry of Defence, under Musa’s leadership, had recorded significant achievements in the fight against insurgency, banditry and other forms of criminality, resulting in improved security in some previously volatile areas.
According to her, such efforts should not be overshadowed by the controversy surrounding the minister’s reported comments.
“General Musa has brought his wealth of operational experience as former Chief of Defence Staff to bear on his current assignment.
“His dedication is evident and should be encouraged. The gains we are recording in securing Nigeria should not be overshadowed by controversies,” she added.
The Foundation also commended Musa’s participation as part of the Nigerian delegation to the recently concluded United Nations General Assembly in the United States.
Momoh described the minister’s contributions to Nigeria’s national security framework and the country’s international security partnerships as significant.
She urged well-meaning Nigerians, political stakeholders and members of the media to seek clarification through appropriate channels whenever necessary, rather than allowing disagreements to escalate into broader political or regional tensions.
The Foundation also called for continued support for the Armed Forces and the Ministry of Defence in their responsibility of protecting the country and maintaining national security.
It reaffirmed its commitment to peacebuilding, national unity and initiatives aimed at promoting a secure and prosperous Nigeria.
