Popular human-rights lawyer and Lead Counsel to the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Ifeanyi Ejiofor, has applauded President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for nominating former Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Gwabin Musa (Rtd.), as Nigeria’s next Minister of Defence.
Describing the appointment as timely, strategic, and a “balm for a bleeding nation,” Ejiofor said Musa represents a square peg in a square hole at a time the country is desperate for competent security leadership.
Ejiofor conveyed his position in a statement released Wednesday titled “Midweek Musing: The Resurrection of Strategic Sanity – The Nomination of General Christopher Gwabin Musa (Rtd.) — A Perfect Square Peg for a Square Hole, and a Long-Awaited Balm for a Bleeding Nation.”
He said many Nigerians were excited by the news, noting that the level of public acceptance of the nomination signaled renewed hope for a safer and more stable country.
According to him, General Musa’s track record as a military leader speaks for itself.
Robust military operations
Recalling his tenure as Chief of Defence Staff, Ejiofor stated that Musa coordinated robust military operations that “dismantled, degraded, and dislodged entrenched terrorist networks,” including Boko Haram, ISWAP, and other banditry formations that once ravaged communities across the country.
Ejiofor argued that under Musa’s watch, security forces demonstrated rare resolve, forcing insurgents into retreat and restoring confidence in the state’s capacity to defend itself.
He described Musa as disciplined, incorruptible, and admired across ethnic and religious divides — a reputation he believes is uncommon in modern Nigerian public office.
Ejiofor highlighted Musa’s Anglican faith, noting that his spiritual discipline reflects in his public service style: calm, civil, and mission-driven.
Vacuum in service
The lawyer further stated that Musa’s exit from service created a vacuum insurgents exploited, alleging that the resurgence of kidnappings, mass killings, and rural attacks in recent months was not unconnected to his departure from active command.
He argued that the situation worsened due to internal sabotage and the presence of what he termed “unpatriotic fifth columnists,” whose actions undermine genuine security efforts.
Ejiofor was particularly critical of individuals like Sheikh Ahmed Gumi, accusing him of emboldening bandit networks and making divisive statements without consequence.
Now, with Musa’s nomination alongside the appointment of Mr. Adeola Ajayi as Director-General of the Department of State Services (DSS), Ejiofor expressed optimism that Nigerians may soon “exhale” after years of insecurity.
According to him, the combination of both men at the helm signals the return of firmness, direction, and the political will required to eliminate insurgency and widespread criminality.
“Many Nigerians have grown accustomed to wincing at federal appointments,” he said, “but this decision stands out as one of the most sensible the government has made in recent memory.”
Social media excitements
Ejiofor maintained that the excitement recorded on social media and in public conversations reflects a collective belief that Musa is capable of delivering results where others struggled.
However, the lawyer did not shy away from controversy. He questioned the rationale behind certain other federal nominations, particularly that of Reno Omokri, who was recently proposed for an ambassadorial role.
Ejiofor argued that such appointments contradict the national image the government seeks to build and urged the Senate to scrutinize Omokri’s suitability.
As the nation awaits Musa’s confirmation by the Senate, Ejiofor said Nigerians are united in optimism and expectation.
“This is a moment of hope for a country long bruised by violence,” he wrote, adding that Musa’s leadership represents a fresh chance to confront insurgency with strategy, courage, and integrity.
According to him, the nation watches, expects and prays.
