Godswill Akpabio urges proper screening of Christopher Musa, says Donald Trump is watching

Godswill Akpabio urges proper screening of Christopher Musa, says Donald Trump is watching

By Sele Media Africa | Ihuoma Amarachi

ABUJA — As the upper house commences the screening of ex‑Chief of Defence Staff Christopher Musa for the post of Minister of Defence, the Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, has insisted on a thorough and transparent vetting process — citing both national and international scrutiny. [1]

Why Akpabio Demands Full Screening-

According to reports, some senators had suggested that Musa be allowed to “take a bow and go” — a fast‑track approval without rigorous questioning. Akpabio rejected that notion, arguing that the security portfolio is too critical to cut corners. [2] – In a pointed remark, Akpabio warned colleagues that “even Donald Trump is watching,” stressing the global attention on Nigeria’s security affairs and the need for credible leadership. [1] – The Senate President argued that with hundreds of schoolchildren still held by kidnappers and rising insecurity nationwide, Nigerians — and the international community — deserve full accountability from any prospective Defence Minister. [1]

The Screening Session & Reaction-

The screening began after the constitutional requirement was met: President Bola Tinubu’s nomination letter was read on the floor of the Senate. [3] – Once inside the chamber, Musa faced several rounds of questioning from senators, focusing on Nigeria’s security crisis, troop operations, and strategies for tackling insurgency, banditry, and mass kidnappings. [1] – The session briefly descended into chaos when some senators attempted to fast‑track the process without questioning — a move thwarted by Akpabio, who restored order and insisted the screening continue. [2]

What This Means for Nigeria’s Security Landscape

– Akpabio’s firm stance underscores the critical importance of transparent vetting for high‑level security appointments — especially at a time when Nigeria faces intensified threats from terrorists, kidnappers, and insurgents. – The public and civil society’s demand for accountability means that Musa’s confirmation (if approved) will be under close watch — not just for credentials, but for concrete plans to restore security. – The emphasis on a “full hearing” sends a message: Nigeria’s leadership cannot skip oversight in the name of expediency — the lives and safety of citizens are at stake.

Citations:

1. Punch Newspapers: punchng.com/akpabio-urges-proper-screening-of-defence-minister-nominee-musa-says-trump-watching/?utm_source=chatgpt.com2. Premium Times Nigeria: www.premiumtimesng.com/news/headlines/840424-just-in-senate-in-rowdy-session-over-christopher-musas-screening-as-defence-minister.html?utm_source=chatgpt.com3. Channels Television: www.channelstv.com/2025/12/03/live-senate-screens-ex-cds-musa-as-defence-minister-nominee/amp/?utm_campaign=LIVE%3ASenateScreensEx-CDSMusaAsDefenceMinisterNominee&utm_medium=push&utm_source=chatgpt.com

About The Author

Ihuoma Amarachi Grace

author

Ihuoma Amarachi Grace is a journalist with Sele Media Africa, committed to telling authentic African stories with depth and creativity. A Christian and a student of English and Literary Studies, she blends her love for writing with the art of spoken word to inspire and inform. Her voice adds a thoughtful and artistic dimension to Sele Media’s mission of amplifying unheard voices across the continent.

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