There has been a renewed demand for the immediate resignation of Defence Minister Mohammed Badaru Abubakar in response to the escalating activities of Boko Haram and ISWAP in Nigeria’s North-East.

The extremist groups recently launched a series of coordinated assaults in Borno State, overrunning military bases, and resulting in the deaths and abductions of both soldiers and civilians.

In light of these developments, the Northern Patriots for Security and Development (NPSD), a civic organization focused on security, has urged Badaru to step down, accusing him of failing to provide effective leadership for the armed forces.

The call was made in a statement released on Tuesday, May 13, 2025, by the group’s President, Alhaji Mansur Ibrahim Dantani, in Kano. The statement voiced serious concern over the worsening security situation in the region, blaming it on the Defence Minister’s alleged lack of strategic focus and suspected political aspirations.

“The recent attacks on military formations in Marte, Dikwa, Rann, and Gajiram within a 24-hour period, resulting in the loss of gallant soldiers and military equipment, shows a glaring failure in leadership at the highest levels of our defence architecture,” Dantani stated.

He further accused Badaru of prioritizing his ambitions for the 2027 presidential elections over tackling the country’s urgent security issues.

“It is disheartening to note that while our troops are making the ultimate sacrifice, the Minister of Defence appears to be more engrossed in political maneuverings aimed at advancing his presidential aspirations. This diversion of focus is detrimental to our national security,” he added.

The NPSD also drew attention to problems of inadequate funding and poor resource allocation within the military, noting that the armed forces still struggle with limited equipment and logistical support despite existing budgetary allocations.

“Our investigations reveal that the Ministry of Defence has failed to ensure the timely release and proper utilization of funds earmarked for military operations. This has left our troops vulnerable and ill-equipped to confront the insurgents effectively,” Dantani emphasised.

He urged President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to take firm action by removing Badaru from office and appointing a more capable and dedicated individual to lead the Defence Ministry.

“The security of our nation cannot be compromised by personal political ambitions. We urge President Tinubu to prioritize the safety of Nigerians by appointing a Defence Minister who is committed solely to the task of securing our country,” Dantani concluded.

The NPSD’s demand comes against the backdrop of increasing public outrage over the renewed wave of insurgent attacks in the North-East. A growing number of Nigerians have voiced their dissatisfaction with the government’s response to the worsening security crisis.

With the country mourning the loss of its courageous soldiers, calls for accountability and stronger leadership within the defence sector are becoming more urgent.