By Lennon Tobias
The Ashlee Momoh Foundation has called for calm and restraint over the backlash trailing comments attributed to the Minister of Defence, retired Gen. Christopher Musa.
The Chief Executive Officer of the Foundation, Princess Ashlee Momoh, made the call on Monday in Abuja.
While expressing concern over misinterpretation of the statement allegedly made by Musa during an interview on national television concerning a former governor, Momoh urged a renewed commitment to national unity.
She said that the alleged statement had been interpreted differently by sections of Nigerians, particularly in Northern Nigeria.
According to her, the comment has heated up the polity and appeared aimed at demeaning a personality who was unanimously celebrated across ethnic and regional divides when his appointment was announced by President Bola Tinubu.
The chief executive officer said what Nigeria needed most at this critical time was unity, not division.
“At this critical time in our national life, what Nigeria needs most is unity, not division.
“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 said.
Momoh urged Nigerians not to heat up the polity over statements that could be clarified through dialogue.
“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,” she said.
She commended the minister for his resilience, professionalism and hard work since assuming office
She noted that the Ministry of Defence had recorded significant and verifiable achievements in the fight against insurgency, banditry and other forms of criminality.
According to her, the achievements have led to improved security in many previously volatile areas.
Momoh also lauded Musa’s presence as part of the Nigerian delegation to the just concluded United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in the U.S.
She described the minister’s contributions to the national security framework and Nigeria’s international security partnerships as “very key and tremendous.”
“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.
She called on well-meaning Nigerians, political stakeholders and the media to de-escalate tensions.
She also urged them to seek clarification through appropriate channels and continue to support the Armed Forces and the Ministry of Defence in keeping Nigeria safe.
She reaffirmed the foundation’s commitment to peacebuilding, national unity and supporting initiatives that promote a secure and prosperous Nigeria.(NAN)
Edited by Isaac Aregbesola
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