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  • APC youths laud Matawalle’s contributions, disown faction

    APC youths laud Matawalle’s contributions, disown faction

    The APC Youth Leaders Network has commended the Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle, for what they described as his remarkable contributions to national security, particularly in the Northwest . 

    The group, at a press conference in Abuja, dissociated themselves from a recent protest by some individuals claiming to be APC youths, demanding the EFCC’s investigation of Matawalle. 

    According to them, the protest was allegedly stage-managed by Zamfara Governor Dauda Lawal. 

    “Apparently, the recent events on a sponsored protest to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) by a faction that claimed to be APC youths, demanding an investigation of Matawalle should be seen as nothing short of an embarrassing attempt to spread falsehood for vendetta politics,” the statement said. 

    “Indeed, this trying times call for an urgent need for Nigerians to circumspectly evaluate any spurious allegations flying around. It is no strange news that Governor Dauda Lawal’s loud failure in discharging the basic functions of governance has pushed him into a new vocation— that is, funding faceless and unrecognizable coalition, mobilizing street protests, and orchestrating malicious narratives that’s aimed at undermining the President Tinubu’s led-administration.

    “Nevertheless, our commitment to truth, justice, and the preservation of democratic integrity that the APC stands for, remains undeterred. Let it be made clear: Minister Bello Matawalle is a respected patriot whose legacy and contributions to national security, particularly in the Northwest, continue to uphold the visionary Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

    “However, Governor Lawal at the other side, rather than governing with the mandate bestowed upon him by the good people of Zamfara State, he has regrettably drowned Zamfara deeper into insecurity, institutional decadency, and economic stagnation.

    “Moreover, it’s on record that insecurity in Zamfara has worsened alarmingly under Lawal’s control. Daily news of banditry festers, communities being ransacked, lives being lost in thousands, and the cry of protection that was never answered. Evidently, it is not out of place to say that the governor is either grossly incompetent to lead or criminally negligent— or perhaps both.

    Read Also: HURIWA faults targeted attacks on Matawalle

    “Undoubtedly, no sincere observer of today’s Nigerian polity can ignore the coordinated pattern of misinformation emanating from the seat of power in Zamfara state. The so-called protest, ludicrous assertions,  and malicious claims peddled by a faction of misguided youths under the dubious banner of the All Progressives Congress Young Leaders Alliance (APC-YLA) against Minister Matawalle is a desperate calculated distraction at diverting public attention away from Lawal’s monumental failures in Zamfara State. Unfortunately , their baseless vituperations stem from an acute awareness of their own irrelevance in the APC political sphere.”

    The APC Youth Leaders Network described Lawal’s administration as “a national embarrassment and a symbol of what should never again be allowed in Nigerian politics.” 

    It urged the EFCC to investigate Lawal’s financial dealings and conduct a full forensic audit of state expenditures.

    The group said Matawalle stands out as a paragon of dedication and patriotism, consistently demonstrating unwavering commitment to national security and stability. 

    It added that his tireless efforts in coordinating local intelligence, devising effective defence strategies, and supporting counterinsurgency operations in the Northwest region have yielded verifiable and commendable results. 

    The group reaffirmed  support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Matawalle, describing the latter as “an epitome of service, loyalty, and patriotism.” 

    It expressed confidence that truth and justice would prevail, and Zamfara State would be delivered from Governor Lawal’s leadership, which they described as “a monumental failure”

  • HURIWA faults targeted attacks on Matawalle

    HURIWA faults targeted attacks on Matawalle

    • …urges EFCC not to be used for political witch-hunt

    The Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA) has condemned the recent petition submitted to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) against the Minister of State for Defence, Dr. Bello Mohammed Matawalle, describing the allegations as baseless and politically motivated.

    In a statement issued on Sunday in Abuja, HURIWA said the petition forms part of a broader, coordinated campaign to undermine a loyal ally of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

    The group linked the smear effort to internal political rivals, particularly within Zamfara State, who are allegedly threatened by Matawalle’s growing influence and steadfast loyalty to the President.

    Reacting to a protest staged at the EFCC headquarters by an unnamed group, HURIWA’s National Coordinator, Comrade Emmanuel Onwubiko, said the allegations against Matawalle are the handiwork of “internal saboteurs” from the northern political establishment.

    “This renewed offensive against Dr. Matawalle is nothing but a vindictive move by political actors unsettled by his key role in stabilizing Nigeria’s security framework,” Onwubiko said. “We were approached by forces loyal to the Zamfara State governor to malign him, but we refused.”

    He added that other groups, including the Northern Sociopolitical Network, had claimed they were offered N200 million by the same elements to run smear campaigns against the minister but reportedly declined the offer.

    HURIWA also expressed concern over the growing misuse of civil society platforms by disgruntled politicians posing as reformers, warning that such practices are damaging public trust and undermining genuine democratic accountability.

    Read Also: AYCF, NAN reaffirm support for Matawalle

    “It is no longer a secret that certain vested interests within the federal structure, especially those from the North-West, feel threatened by the visible and strategic positioning of Dr. Matawalle in the cabinet. These people have repeatedly launched media trials and recycled allegations to reduce his influence,” HURIWA noted.

    The group further expressed concern that the EFCC risks becoming a tool for political witch-hunts rather than a neutral, evidence-driven anti-graft body.

    “We must caution the EFCC not to allow itself to be used to settle political scores or to undermine loyal public servants who are actively contributing to national stability. These petitions are not new; they have been regurgitated with fanfare to serve sinister objectives. We urge the Commission to act only within the limits of verifiable evidence and due process,” the statement read.

    While HURIWA acknowledged the need for accountability and transparency in governance, it emphasised that such principles must not be manipulated to serve parochial or ethnic interests.

    The group recalled that this was not the first time individuals or groups had mobilized under questionable identities to orchestrate public outcries aimed at discrediting Matawalle.

    “In May and September 2024, similar petitions were peddled, yet no credible or prosecutable evidence was advanced. Instead, we have seen a pattern—an orchestrated onslaught—that starts with petitions, followed by protests, and ends with media headlines, only to fizzle out without legal consequence. This has all the trademarks of a political vendetta,” HURIWA observed.

    The human rights advocacy group also highlighted Dr. Matawalle’s notable contributions in his current role as Minister of State for Defence. According to HURIWA, since his appointment, the former Zamfara State governor has shown extraordinary commitment to national security reforms, military welfare, and civil-military cooperation, often embarking on field visits to frontlines and engaging with military commanders.

    “His performance as Minister of State for Defence has been nothing short of commendable. He has brought a proactive and pragmatic style to military-civil engagement and has become a unifying figure in an otherwise tense national security framework. Those who fear his rising influence in the defence sector are the real enemies of progress,” the statement added.

    The organisation expressed disappointment that the same political establishment that failed to combat terrorism, banditry, and insecurity while in power in Zamfara and neighbouring states now seeks to shift blame to Matawalle, who has been among the most vocal defenders of the President’s security policies.

    HURIWA further recalled its earlier position that Matawalle’s undiluted loyalty to President Bola Tinubu has attracted the envy of anti-Tinubu elements within the government, who are strategically deploying diversionary tactics to pit the EFCC against him.

  • Why we rejected N200m bribe to stage protest against Tinubu, Matawalle – Group

    Why we rejected N200m bribe to stage protest against Tinubu, Matawalle – Group

    An advocacy group, the Northern Socio-Political Rights Network (NSPRN) said it turned down a N200 million bribe offered by proxies linked to the Zamfara state government to mobilise a protest against President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle.

    In a statement issued on Saturday in Kaduna, the group’s president, Mohammed Farouk Lawal, said the offer was made to them through third-party emissaries earlier this week, with clear instructions to publicly accuse President Tinubu’s administration of shielding Matawalle from corruption investigations.

    Lawal said the plot was part of a calculated campaign to weaken the federal government’s hold on the North-West by discrediting key appointees loyal to the president.

    “We were approached by individuals claiming to represent high-ranking officials in Zamfara. They offered us N200 million to organise a large-scale protest in Abuja, targeting President Tinubu and Dr. Matawalle,” Lawal said.

    “The aim was to give the impression that the North has turned against the president and that there is widespread outrage over perceived protection of certain ministers from investigation. We rejected the offer outright.”

    He alleged that the same network had already funded previous protests using other groups and was aggressively scouting for new voices to legitimise its campaign.

    “They are desperate for credibility. When they realised that our group has a clean record and strong grassroots following in the North, they thought buying us over would amplify their lies. But we are not for sale,” Lawal said.

    According to him, some of the terms of the deal included reading out pre-written scripts at press conferences, staging a protest at the EFCC headquarters, and creating viral videos calling for Matawalle’s arrest.

    Read Also: Jubril Tinubu invests in scholarship scheme

    The NSPR Network said the offer confirms that recent protests against the Minister of State for Defence were not grassroots-driven but part of a “state-funded blackmail operation”.

    “What is happening is an internal war against Tinubu’s appointees. We have it on good authority that these attacks are designed to cause disaffection ahead of 2027. But this group will not be part of it,” Lawal declared.

    The group commended President Tinubu for appointing northern leaders with capacity and defended Matawalle as one of the few former governors actively supporting military efforts to curb banditry and terrorism in the North.

    “While some are busy funding protests, the minister is helping to secure our region. Nigerians must see through this charade,” Lawal added.

    The group urged security agencies to probe the source of funds allegedly being used to sponsor political protests in the capital, warning that if unchecked, such actions could pose a threat to national stability.

  • FG committed to ending banditry in Northwest — Matawalle

    FG committed to ending banditry in Northwest — Matawalle

    The Minister of State for Defence and former Governor of Zamfara State, Dr. Bello Mohammed Matawalle, has reaffirmed the federal government’s commitment under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to ending banditry in Nigeria’s northwest region.

    Matawalle gave the assurance during a condolence visit to the family of the late Chief Imam of Maru Juma’at Mosque, Alkali Salihu Suleiman, who was brutally murdered along with two of his children by armed bandits after being abducted two months ago.

    Represented by the Secretary of the Zamfara State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Hon. Ibrahim Umar Dangaladima, the minister extended his sympathies to the bereaved family, leading a high-powered delegation on behalf of the federal government.

    In a statement issued by the APC State Publicity Secretary, Malam Yusuf Idris, the minister noted that President Tinubu has provided the military with all necessary equipment to intensify the fight against terrorism and restore peace in the region.

    “The President has supplied all the required fighting apparatus to the military, and very soon, they will ensure the return of peace in the region,” the statement read.

    Matawalle also urged citizens to support security agencies by providing credible intelligence to help defeat banditry and other forms of criminality.

    “Security requires every well-meaning citizen’s support irrespective of political or religious inclination. The statement noted.

    The minister called on North West governors to complement the efforts of the federal government in ensuring peaceful coexistence.

    Read Also: Matawalle: what Nigeria needs from US to end terrorism

    “Matawalle emphasised that there is a need for synergy with state governments in the North West region with the federal government to bring a total shutdown against the bandits and their terrible inhuman activities.” The statement expressed.

    The Minister for Defence, Dr. Bello Mohammed Matawalle, prayed Allah to receive the late chief Imam as a martyr and give the immediate family of the deceased well as the people of Maru, the fortitude to bear the loss.

    The minister further lamented how armed banditry has recently taken a new dimension in the state, where religious leaders are now the target.

    “As the APC leader of the state and Minister of Defence, Matawalle assured that his ministry will continue to deploy more personnel to the state to eliminate the criminals. The minister said.

    Matawalle also donated five (5) million naira cash, ten (10) bags of rice, ten (10) cartons of spaghetti, and ten (10) cartons of macaroni to the bereaved family.

    Receiving the delegation, a member of the deceased Imam’s family and Emir of Maru, Alh Abubakar Gado Maigari, thanked the minister for always showing concern for the people of the state and prayed Allah to continue to reward, guide, protect, and support him in all his dealings.

    The Minister’s delegation included  APC Financial Secretary, Alh Hamisu Habibu Kasuwar Daji, Alh Isah Maigemu, State APC Woman leader, Hajiya Afiyatu Suleiman, Alh Hussaini Suleiman Shagrewa, former Gusau Local government Sole administrator,  Hon. Sanusi Mohammed Sarki, Former Education Commissioner, Hon. Bashir Madaro Walin kurya and Former Chairman Shinkafi Local government, Hon Abdulrahaman Bala Shinkafi.

    Others are Former Commissioner Special Duties, Hon Lawali Abubakar Zannah, APC Ex-Officio, Alh Abdullahi Sauro Kanoma, Maru Local government APC Chairman, Alh Yakubu Gado Mayanchi, Former ZASIEC Chairman, Alh Isah Umar Tambuwal, Former Special Adviser,

    Alh  Ahmad Abdullahi Shinkafi, Assistant APC Welfare Secretary, Hon. Shehu J Muhammad, Hon. Ibrahim Maaji admin, Alh Ali Gidan Kaso, APC Assistant Treasurer, Hon. Ibrahim Dankulodo, and Alh Nasiru Magaji Karfa, among others.

  • AYCF, NAN reaffirm support for Matawalle

    AYCF, NAN reaffirm support for Matawalle

    The Arewa Youth Consultative Forum (AYCF) and the Northern Awareness Network (NAN) have reaffirmed their support for the Minister of State for Defence, Bello Mohammed Matawalle, amid reports of a planned press conference to call for his dismissal.

    In a joint statement by the President General of AYCF, Yerima Shettima, and Chairman of NAN, Salihu Sulaimon, the groups described Matawalle as a “beacon of hope” and a “formidable pillar of support” for President Bola Tinubu in the North-West region.

    The AYCF and NAN commended Matawalle’s contributions to national defence, citing his strategic approach to addressing security challenges and fostering collaboration among security agencies.

    They urged President Tinubu to disregard the planned attack and continue supporting Matawalle’s efforts to strengthen national defence.

    The groups expressed concern over what they described as “malicious attempts” to undermine Matawalle’s efforts through baseless allegations, and called on citizens to remain vigilant and united in support of leaders committed to national service.

    They reiterated their commitment to working together to build a stronger and more united North-West and Nigeria.

    The statement reads: “Minister Matawalle is a beacon of hope and a formidable pillar of support for President Tinubu in the North-West region. Matawalle has been a pivotal ally and strategist for the President in the North-West region, significantly bolstering the administration’s influence.

    Read Also: Arewa coalition urges ex-NNPC boss Kyari to submit to judicial probe

    “His unwavering support not only consolidates the President’s foothold in a critical electoral zone but also poses a formidable challenge to the fragmented opposition, which aims to undermine Tinubu’s prospects for reelection in 2027.

    “Matawalle’s political acumen and regional appeal are instrumental in countering dissent, thereby reinforcing the ruling party’s agenda and stability in an atmosphere fraught with competing interests and electoral volatility. His dedication and commitment to enhancing national security cannot be overstated. Under his stewardship, the Ministry of Defence has undertaken pivotal initiatives aimed at addressing the multifaceted security challenges facing our nation. His strategic approach has fostered a collaborative environment among various security agencies, leading to significant strides in countering insurgency and banditry.

    “We urge President Tinubu to disregard the orchestrated calls for Matawalle’s removal and to recognise the essential role he plays in the ongoing efforts to secure our nation.

     “It is disheartening to witness some people attempting to undermine a fellow public servant who has consistently prioritised the welfare and security of our citizens.

    “The allegations being peddled by some people lack any substantive evidence and reflect a broader pattern of political manoeuvring that seeks to distract from the pressing issues at hand. While we understand that political rivalries can often lead to tensions, we must emphasise that the safety and security of our communities should remain paramount above all else.

    “It is crucial that we foster an environment of collaboration rather than division, particularly in matters as serious as national defence.

    We call upon our fellow citizens, particularly those in the North-West, to remain vigilant and discerning in the face of these politically motivated attacks. It is essential that we stand united in support of our leaders who demonstrate an unwavering commitment to the service of our nation.

    “The challenges we face as a region require collective action and a shared vision for a safer and more prosperous future.

    “We, the Arewa Youth Consultative Forum and the Northern Awareness Network, reiterate our steadfast support for Minister of State for Defence, Bello Mohammed Matawalle. We urge President Tinubu to continue supporting him in his endeavours to fortify our national defence. Let us not allow political machinations to derail the progress we have made or to compromise the safety and security of our people. Together, we can build a stronger, more united North-West and Nigeria at large.”

  • Matawalle seeks stronger US support on intelligence, counterterrorism

    Matawalle seeks stronger US support on intelligence, counterterrorism

    Nigeria’s Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle, has called for increased support from the United States in intelligence sharing, counterterrorism efforts, and the enhancement of military capabilities to address the country’s growing security challenges.

    Matawalle disclosed this while receiving Major General Garrick Harmon, Director for Strategy, Engagement, and Programs at the United States Africa Command (AFRICOM), during a courtesy visit to the Ministry of Defence headquarters (Ship House) in Abuja on Thursday.

    Major General Harmon is in Nigeria as part of a familiarisation tour in his current role within AFRICOM.

    According to a statement from the Ministry of Defence, Matawalle emphasised the need to deepen the defence partnership between Nigeria and the United States, highlighting the importance of collaboration in overcoming shared security threats and enhancing regional stability.

    He reiterated Nigeria’s readiness to strengthen bilateral defence ties, especially in areas that support the nation’s fight against terrorism and other transnational crimes. 

    The statement said: “He said Nigeria is dedicated to promoting regional peace and security; however, we cannot achieve this alone.

    “We require more robust support from the United States, particularly in intelligence sharing and capacity building, to effectively combat terrorism, insurgency, and transnational threats.

    Read Also: Matawalle: Group warns against smear campaigns, fake news

    According to the statement, Maj Gen Harmon, in his response, expressed gratitude for the warm reception and reaffirmed the United States’ commitment to supporting Nigeria’s efforts in enhancing security and stability across West Africa.

    “He noted that despite the brief duration of his visit, the engagements in Nigeria have been highly productive and highlight the strength of the existing partnership between the two nations,” the statement said.

    “Both parties acknowledged their shared interests and agreed on the necessity for deeper collaboration in addressing the security challenges facing the region.”

  • Matawalle: Group warns against smear campaigns, fake news

    Matawalle: Group warns against smear campaigns, fake news

    The Guardians of One Nigeria (GON), a prominent sociocultural group with a wide network across the country, has issued a stern warning to what it described as “enemies of Nigeria” to stop politicising the country’s security challenges.

    The group condemned the spread of false narratives aimed at undermining the government’s efforts to tackle insurgency and terrorism, stressing that no amount of propaganda, blackmail, or fake news could distract a focused President from his mission to restore peace and security.

    GON’s reaction followed a wave of rumours that circulated on social media on Tuesday, alleging that President Bola Tinubu had relieved the Minister of Defence, Mohammed Abubakar Badaru; Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle; and the Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu, of their duties.

    The claims, which were not carried by any credible media outlet, were reportedly linked to a fake statement attributed to the President’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga. 

    The statement falsely claimed the sack was due to the ministers’ failure to halt ongoing killings across the country.

    Describing the reports as “fake news,” the GON, in a statement signed on Wednesday by its President, Arch. Darius Ishakwu, and Secretary General, Chief Nurudeen Isiaka, urged those behind the misinformation to desist immediately.

    The group, which comprises retired security officers, paramilitary personnel, and professionals engaged in community security efforts, emphasized that Nigeria’s insecurity problem is longstanding and predates the current administration. It also praised the Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle, for his role in sustaining military pressure on insurgents, noting that his efforts have exceeded those of some of his predecessors.

    “If the Defence Minister in the past administrations had done half of what Matawalle has done in less than 2 years, we would not have been here discussing insecurity in this tone. The dexterity with which the Chief of Defence Staff, General Chris Musa also faces the monstrous challenge of insecurity, is a testament that there is a great synergy amongst the Service Chiefs and the Defence Ministry. 

    Read Also: Matawalle, Zamfara governor trade blames over state’s finances, security woes

    “Just yesterday, when the enemies of Nigeria went out to plant the fake news online, the Honourable Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle and the CDS, General Musa, were in Borno State, to pay operational visit to those patriotic personnel at the Theater of War, to encourage them and possibly get first hand feedback from those who bear the brunt. The Governor of the state, Prof. Zulu was in hand to receive them and together, they were conducted round the troops’ camps.

    “There are tactical means the current administration is devising in fighting insurgencies, banditry and terrorism. These are not fights you take to social media. These are not what anyone should play politics with. If anyone wishes President Tinubu well in his administration, such a person should suggest plausible ways to assist the existing security agencies and the Defence Chiefs, through intelligence gathering, community policing, homeland defence, neighborhood watch, and other possible means.

    “This is what we stand for in Guardians of One Nigeria. We believe that security is not one man show. Government alone cannot do it. We need to rally round with great support. But, if anyone has nothing meaningfully to offer, such a fellow should better keep his mouth shut, rather than playing dirty politics at the expense of the lives of our people. The year 2027 would come and go, but Nigeria would still remain as one”, the statement added.

    The group, speaking further, said it was on record that Matawalle was someone who has devoted his energy to visiting troops in the front line. 

    It said, “He (Matawalle) knows his onions and should not be distracted. We will continue to support him to achieve his aim of bringing insurgencies to standstill in Nigeria”.

  • Matawalle, Zamfara governor trade blames over state’s finances, security woes

    Matawalle, Zamfara governor trade blames over state’s finances, security woes

    The immediate past Governor of Zamfara State and current Minister of State for Defence, Bello Mohammed Matawalle, and the incumbent Governor, Dauda Lawal, have clashed over the financial and security situations in the state.

    Governor Lawal had alleged that the Matawalle administration left only N4 million in the state treasury. 

    However, Matawalle, through his former Commissioner for Information, Alhaji Ibrahim Dosara, dismissed the claim as a “blatant lie” during a press conference held in Kaduna.

    Matawalle stated that his administration left behind N14 billion in bond proceeds, N2.6 billion in World Bank funds, and other financial grants. 

    He also countered Lawal’s allegation of salary arrears, saying only three months were owed, not four and a half as claimed, and blamed the current administration’s threats to banks for the delay in payments.

    On security, the former governor accused Lawal of misrepresenting the situation in Zamfara, pointing to recent cases of attacks and abductions as evidence of worsening insecurity.

    Matawalle also criticised Lawal’s governance, citing failures such as the alleged non-payment of WAEC and NECO fees for 2016, 2017, and 2018, stalled road projects, and poor implementation of the minimum wage.

    “We are compelled by the circumstances of the above subject matter, in which our government, under the leadership of His Excellency, former governor of Zamfara State, Hon. Bello Mohammed Matawalle was erroneously but intentionally accused of wrong doings while in office as the Governor of Zamfara state by the current governor Dr. Dauda Lawal, when he granted an interview to Arise TV news during its Monday 14th April 2025 morning show.

    “We would have ignored the interview for it’s inconsistencies, lack of focus and credibility, but for the members of the public, who are either not indigenes of Zamfara or are unaware of the happenings in the state for the past 2 years of Dauda Lawal as the governor of the State, we are obliged to respond to some tissues of lies and concoctions of the Governor in the interview.

    “It was on record that our average cash allocation then was 3.2 billion Naira monthly, which was grossly inadequate to pay workers salaries and allowances totalling 2.1 billion Naira, as well run other essential services, including health, power supply and logistics services for the state huge numbers of visitors coming for various official government businesses. This is coupled with the mounting security challenges facing the State. 

    Meanwhile, governor Lawal’s Director General, Media and Communication, Nuhu Anka in a press statement said Matawalle’s defence held no water, but a bunch of goofs.

    Anka said , “I would have ignored Dosara’s blunders and leave the matter to the people of the state to judge particularly the civil servants who were denied payment of their three months salaries and the former Governor’s aides who did not collect their severance allowance due to cash crunch during Matawalle’s administration, but I find it very imperative to react in order to put the records straight.

    Read Also: Matawalle: Tinubu is north’s greatest asset in security, development

    “During the Arise TV interview, Governor Dauda Lawal came out clearly and informed the whole world that his predecessor, Bello Matawalle left only four Million Naira in the government’s coffers which ibrahim Dosara was trying to dispute during the press conference, calling it “a blatant lie”. 

    “Dosara told journalists during the press conference that his paymaster former Governor Bello Mattawalle left N14 billion bond proceeds, N2.6 billion accresals world bank funds, N6.3 billion UBE grants and N2.7 billion NGcares World Bank funds investment totalling to the sum of N42 billion to his successor Governor Dauda Lawal.

    “If the above amount was in the government’s coffers during Matawalle’s administration, then one would have asked Dosara to explain why his paymaster refused to settle the three months salaries of the civil servants and also denied his aides their severance allowance.

    “Infact, the former Governor had seriously mismanaged the state government’s resources on White-elephant’s projects and did not leave any legacy worthy of commendation throughout the state. He left huge debts, while the state went bankrupt during his tenure.

    “The people of the state are lucky to have Governor Dauda Lawal as their leader, otherwise Zamfara state would have been ungovernable because his predecessor Bello Matawalle had inflicted serious economic injury to the state which would be very difficult to heal.

    In just few months, Governor Dauda Lawal used his vast experience as an economist to rebuild the state’s already bastardized economy. He was able to pay the three months salaries of the state civil servants and has also implemented the N30,000 minimum wage which the previous administrations refused to implement. He has also implemented the recent N70,000 national minimum wage.

    “As at this press statement, Zamfara state is not owing anybody both within and outside the country, while government policies and programs are going on unhindered, unlike in the previous administrations when the state had to go cap in hand to borrow money and pay salary.

    “Dosara has also accused Governor Dauda Lawal of not paying much attention to security situation in the state. This is laughable because everyone knows that the security situation in the state is far better at the moment than when Bello Matawalle was the Governor. I don’t want to play politics with security, as such I don’t want to delve much on Dosara’s baseless accusations. 

    “Again, I want to remind Dosara that, his paymaster is the Minister of Defence whose responsibility it is to ensure the protection of lives and property of the people of the country. Ask your paymaster to tell us the efforts he has been doing to secure his home state and the entire country.

    “I want to advise Dosara and his paymaster to stop wasting their time as there is no amount of blackmail and campaign of calumny that could deter Governor Dauda Lawal from executing the people oriented projects”.

  • Matawalle: Tinubu is north’s greatest asset in security, development

    Matawalle: Tinubu is north’s greatest asset in security, development

    The Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle, has declared President Bola Ahmed Tinubu as the “greatest asset” to Northern Nigeria’s security and development efforts.

    Speaking through his Senior Aide on Politics, Hon. Ibrahim Danmaliki Gidan Goga, on Friday, Matawalle dismissed claims that the President is a political liability to the North, describing such assertions as baseless and the handiwork of “disgruntled elements.”

    He accused Tinubu’s critics of spreading “propaganda and falsehoods” in a bid to gain political favor and public sympathy.

    “Our people in the North are wise enough not to be misled by individuals who have failed to secure their political future,” the minister declared, adding that these critics “once held power but squandered it, and now resort to mischief to stay relevant.”

    Highlighting the administration’s security gains, Matawalle pointed to the success of Operation Fansan Yamma and other military initiatives. 

    “He said over 65 notorious bandit leaders have been neutralized, hundreds of foot soldiers eliminated, and more than 200 camps destroyed since Tinubu took office.

    Read Also: Group slams Zamfara governor over allegations against Matawalle

    “We must rally behind the President to ensure lasting peace and development in the North,” Matawalle urged, noting that Ramadan and Sallah celebrations proceeded with “significantly fewer reports of bandit attacks and kidnappings” this year.

    Matawalle also blamed excluded political elites for spreading misinformation out of frustration over missed appointments. “When given the mandate in the past, they failed our people. 

    “Now they go around shedding crocodile tears to gain cheap popularity behind those they abandoned,” he said.

    On infrastructure, the minister lauded the revival of long-neglected projects including the multi‑billion‑naira Zaria–Gusau–Talata Mafara–Sokoto expressway and the re‑awarded Abuja–Kaduna–Kano highway, among others. 

    “These are major arteries the North has waited decades to see completed,” he noted.

    Matawalle reaffirmed Tinubu’s commitment to “building a prosperous, united Nigeria,” pledging that the administration would continue to deliver security, cohesion, and growth through the remainder of its first term.

  • Group slams Zamfara governor over allegations against Matawalle

    Group slams Zamfara governor over allegations against Matawalle

    A group under the aegis of Zamfara Elders for Peace and Development on Tuesday lambasted Zamfara State Governor Dauda Lawal over his recent allegations against his predecessor and current Minister of State for Defence, Mohammed Bello Matawalle.

    Reacting to Governor Lawal’s comments made during a recent appearance on national television, the group described his remarks as baseless, diversionary, and a reflection of his administration’s failure to tackle the state’s mounting problems.

    Chairman of the group, Hon. Aliyu Adamu Kaura, accused Lawal of abandoning his campaign promises while Zamfara continues to battle rampant insecurity, deepening poverty, and a glaring absence of essential infrastructure.

    Kaura criticized the governor for sidelining rural development, embarking on unproductive “white elephant” projects, and focusing more on appeasing political allies than addressing the needs of ordinary citizens.

    He also decried the deteriorating state of education in Zamfara, citing that over 65% of primary schools across 12 local government areas have been abandoned, with many school buildings left in a state of disrepair and unfit for learning.

    “It’s disheartening that instead of taking bold steps to address the state’s challenges, Zamfara State Governor Dauda Lawal has become a habitual complainer, consistently shifting blame to his predecessor. 

    “Unlike his colleagues in neighboring states like Katsina, Sokoto, Kebbi, and Niger, who are working to address similar challenges, Governor Lawal seems more focused on criticizing former Governor Mohammed Bello Matawalle.

    “His open enmity and political vendetta against Matawalle have clouded his judgment, portraying him as a weak leader who can’t forgive, surrounded by short-sighted lieutenants, Lawal is destroying the peaceful atmosphere and political cohesion in Zamfara. 

    “He’s rapidly losing his reputation as a leader worth emulating and is instead becoming known as a serial complainer and political propagandist”, he said.

    The group also decried persistent water scarcity in th state, affecting the state capital and neighbouring communities.

    “The state capital and almost all 14 local governments face acute water shortages, while insecurity has deteriorated more than during Matawalle’s era. 

    “There’s a lack of social amenities and services, and people from outside the state have been hired for administrative roles. Many civil servants in Zamfara earn below 7,000 naira, and salary issues persist, with payments seemingly given with one hand and taken away with the other.

    “Zamfara now owns only three functional firefighting vehicles, which puts lives and property at risk whenever there’s a fire disaster. This is despite inheriting 14 serviceable and working fire service vehicles from Matawalle’s administration. 

    “Former Governor Matawalle had bought fire service trucks for each of the 14 local government areas, but Governor Lawal has abandoned them, allegedly due to envy and lack of foresight.

    “Governor Lawal’s administration allegedly spent over N4 billion on vehicles for political appointees without state assembly approval. Meanwhile, rural areas lack basic necessities like shelter, water supply, roads, and standard healthcare services. The majority of the public is left at the mercy of banditry.

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    “The education sector is also in shambles. Zamfara recorded its worst position in NECO and WAEC exams under Governor Lawal’s watch. Over 65% of primary schools in 12 local governments have been deserted. UNICEF has expressed concern about the learning conditions, and UBEC hasn’t received necessary funding due to negligence and poor coordination under Governor Lawal’s administration.

    “The dilapidated school buildings have become uninhabitable due to decay and lack of maintenance as the state government withdraws support for educational activities. It’s unclear who Governor Lawal is trying to fool with his claims of progress.

    “Any governor that fails to use his position to protect his citizens must note go hiring space on TV or Radio talking about others failure during their reigns. That governor does not deserve to be recognized for his utterances no matter how eloquently he mischievously stated it.

    “Instead of addressing Zamfara’s challenges, he seems more focused on attending party activities. Notably, on the same day bandits attacked and kidnapped people in six communities in the State, our Governor was seen dancing with other PDP governors in Ibadan”, the group decried.