The Northern Patriots for Security and Development (NPSD) has demanded the immediate resignation of the Minister of Defence, Mohammed Badaru Abubakar, citing his alleged failure to provide effective leadership for Nigeria's armed forces in the wake of recent terrorist attacks.

In a statement released in Kano on Tuesday evening, NPSD President Alhaji Mansur Ibrahim Dantani expressed grave concerns over the deteriorating security situation in the North-East, particularly following coordinated attacks by Boko Haram and ISWAP fighters on multiple military bases in Borno State.

"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, show a glaring failure in leadership at the highest levels of our defence architecture," Dantani stated.

The group accused Badaru of prioritizing his alleged 2027 presidential ambitions over national security concerns. According to the NPSD, this divided attention has contributed significantly to the military's challenges in effectively combating insurgency in the region.

"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 manoeuvrings aimed at advancing his presidential aspirations. This diversion of focus is detrimental to our national security," the statement added.

The NPSD also highlighted concerns regarding inadequate funding and resource allocation for military operations. The group claimed their investigations revealed failures within the Ministry of Defence to ensure timely release and proper utilization of funds earmarked for security operations.

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

The group has called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to take decisive action by relieving Badaru of his duties and appointing what they described as "a more competent and focused individual" to head the Defence Ministry.

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

This call for resignation comes amid growing public concern over the resurgence of insurgent activities in Nigeria's North-East region, with many citizens expressing frustration over the government's handling of the security situation as the nation mourns the loss of soldiers in recent attacks.