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  • NDYC commends Matawalle for fight against terrorism

    NDYC commends Matawalle for fight against terrorism

    The Niger Delta Youth Congress (NDYC) has passed a vote of confidence on the Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle, for his crucial role in combating banditry and terrorism in the North-West region of the country thus far.

    In a statement issued by Comrade Israel Uwejeyan national coordinator of the NDYC, he commended Matawalle’s bold initiatives and determined pursuit of justice against the perpetrators of violence.

    He said: “Minister Matawalle has demonstrated an unwavering dedication to duty, epitomising the very essence of patriotic service. In a time when national security has faced immense challenges, his proactive measures and relentless pursuit of terrorist kingpins have contributed significantly to reclaiming peace and stability in the North-West.

    His actions exemplify the spirit of leadership that is both proactive and resilient, showcasing his readiness to engage with the toughest of challenges and confront the darkest elements threatening the safety of Nigerians.”

    Expatiating, Uwejeyan said: “Matawalle’s initiatives have been crucial in restoring hope among the citizens of the North-West, who have for long faced the scourge of insecurity. The NDYC is particularly encouraged by his collaborative efforts with security agencies, ensuring that a comprehensive strategy is adopted in combating the menace of banditry and restoring peace to affected communities.

    “We also wish to acknowledge the remarkable loyalty of Minister Matawalle to the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. His evident commitment to the vision of the Tinubu government, combined with his dedication to public service, has marked him as one of the most active, resourceful and dogged ministers in President Tinubu’s administration.

    “His contributions are not only significant to the North-West but also serve as a model of what it means to be an effective leader and a devoted public servant in the larger Nigerian context. He has been a major asset to the administration, bringing to the table a combination of experience, foresight, and a relentless pursuit of excellence in service delivery.

    “Minister Matawalle’s distinguished service transcends the borders of his immediate constituency and speaks to a broader national commitment that is essential for the growth and stability of our country. His work has demonstrated an exceptional understanding of the intricacies of insecurity and a hands-on approach that has proven crucial in dismantling networks of banditry and restoring the sanctity of human lives and property. This is the type of leadership Nigeria needs in its march towards achieving a peaceful and prosperous future.

    “The Niger Delta Youth Congress also notes the exemplary manner in which Minister Matawalle has carried out his duties with transparency, accountability, and a deep sense of empathy for the suffering masses. His commitment to ensuring the safety and well-being of all citizens, regardless of their background, is a testament to his belief in a united and progressive Nigeria. He has shown himself to be a leader who is not afraid to get directly involved, to listen, to understand the plight of the people, and to act decisively in the best interest of the nation.

    Read Also: I never backed bandits, says Matawalle

    “We hail Minister Bello Matawalle as a true patriot, an inspiring leader, and a beacon of hope for the Nigerian people. His relentless pursuit of peace and justice, even in the face of daunting challenges, stands as a testament to his courage and sense of duty. We urge other public officials to emulate his dedication, loyalty, and action-oriented approach towards addressing the pressing issues facing our nation.

    “The NDYC reaffirms its support for all efforts aimed at bringing peace, stability, and prosperity to every corner of Nigeria, and we are proud to stand alongside leaders like Minister Matawalle who have chosen to make sacrifices for the greater good of our nation.

    “We are confident that with such dedication, Nigeria will overcome the security challenges that have plagued us, and we will emerge stronger and more united as a nation. Minister Matawalle’s remarkable contributions are a reminder that with commitment, collaboration, and decisive action, we can achieve the Nigeria we all envision—safe, secure, and thriving.”

  • Banditry: No court case against Matawalle, says Zamfara group

    Banditry: No court case against Matawalle, says Zamfara group

    There is no court case pending against the Minister of State for Defence and former Zamfara State Governor Bello Mohammed Matawalle, a group of Zamfara State indigenes under the aegis of Concerned Citizens of Zamfara State (CCZS) has said.

    CCZS said a report claiming that the minister had a connection with banditry was untrue, adding that it was false, misleading, and fallacious for anyone to say a case was pending in court against him.

    The group spoke through a statement by its Chairman Yusuf Sani and Secretary Dahiru Nasiru.

    It described the reports as fake news.

    The reports, which were said to have been circulated on various social media platforms, claimed that a Federal High Court in Abuja accepted to hear a suit by Abubakar Dahiru, who described himself a rights activist, seeking a probe against Matawalle for allegedly supporting banditry while in office as Zamfara State governor.

    Read Also: Delayed benefits  

    CCZS claimed that a search by its lawyers at the Federal High Court in Abuja showed that no such suit was filed in the court.

    The group noted that should such a suit be filed eventually, the minister is not afraid to defend himself in the court of law.

    It accused Zamfara State Governor Dauda Lawal of political witch-hunt and allegedly engaging in efforts to discredit his immediate predecessor. 

    CCZS, which faulted the allegations linking Matawalle with banditry, challenged the accusers to support their allegations with proof.

    The statement reads: “It is worth noting that Matawalle, the former governor of Zamfara State, had previously taken steps to address the banditry issue, including establishing military operations and spending billions of naira on security.

    “He had even gone a step further, swearing with the Holy Qur’an, as he pointed out in a recent media interview, that he never sponsored banditry and that this is nothing but a wicked political witch-hunt being sponsored by his successor.

    “Recall that Governor Dauda Lawal had accused his predecessor of ‘sponsoring banditry’ and ‘accommodating the terrorist at the Government House’.

    “These are parts of the gimmicks of Governor Dauda who has been a continuous guest to media houses to tarnish the image of the Honourable Minister of State for Defence and also to block his re-appointment as a minister since the news of cabinet reshuffle became public…”

    “We are reliably informed that Governor Dauda is the one sponsoring the forum shopping for a court order which has a stringent process to be followed before it is granted. The courts cannot be deceived or induced by Governor Lawal or his proxies. This name-dropping of the court is absurd, preposterous and naive for a person of his status trying to run down his own brother who is holding a sensitive post in the government.

    “The public should be wary of deceitful information emanating from the governor of Zamfara or his proxies and are advised to disregard such a publication.”

  • I never backed bandits, says Matawalle

    I never backed bandits, says Matawalle

    • Minister challenges accusers to produce evidence
    • ’They are after me because I dialogued with bandits’

    The Minister of State for Defence, Dr. Bello Matawalle, has said he once swore with the Holy Qur’an not have any connection or hands in banditry.

    The minister dismissed allegations of aiding banditry, challenging his accusers to provide the evidence of his complicity in the act.

    Matawalle spoke yesterday on Channels Television’s breakfast programme, “Sunrise Daily”.

    The minister justified his decision to dialogue with bandits, saying many governors had toed this line of action.

    He argued that such engagements with bandits had led to the rescue of abducted persons and recovery of ammunition in Zamfara State.

    “Let me remind you that I was the only governor that swore with the Holy Qur’an that I have no hand or connection with banditry. I am not happy with what is happening. I said if I am happy or if I am part of it or if I know those doing it or if I am collaborating with them, God should not give me one-second grace.”

    The former governor explained why he negotiated with bandits, saying: “I have always acted in good faith, as have other governors who engaged in dialogue with bandits…

    “I was not the only one that dialogued with the bandits. The governor of Niger State, Abubakar Sani Bello, the then governor of Sokoto, Aminu Waziri Tambuwal, and the governor of Katsina State dialogued with them. So, why only me?

    “Yet, I seem to be singled out, perhaps because Zamfara is a complex state with terrible human beings with devilish ideas.”

    The minister argued that his fearlessness in tackling criminals in Zamfara State had made him unpopular among those engaged in criminal activities.

    Read Also: Tinubu administration prioritises citizens’ trust – Bala Usman

    “The people who oppose me do so because I go after them,” he said.

    When asked if the people he was referring to were politicians, he said: “Yes, they are politicians, and I go after them.

    The minister named two prominent indigenes of Zamfara as complicit in promoting banditry.

    He challenged them to publicly swear with the Holy Qur’an, like he had done, if they were truly not complicit.

    “The dialogue (with bandits) brought significant success,” Matawalle added.

    The minister cited the recovery of weapons and the release of thousands of abducted individuals, including some foreign nationals, following dialogues with bandits.

    Drawing comparisons with the path of negotiations with bandits taken by former President Muhammadu Buhari in the efforts to secure the release of the Chibok girls, Matawalle said: “This is a global practice; governments across the world enter into agreements to save lives…

    “People are spreading misconceptions out of hate, but I have no regrets because we achieved a lot of success without paying a single kobo in ransom.”

  • Matawalle challenges Gusau, Zamfara gov to swear by Quran over banditry claims

    Matawalle challenges Gusau, Zamfara gov to swear by Quran over banditry claims

    The Minister of State for Defence, Bello Muhammad Matawalle, has challenged figures like General Ali Gusau and Zamfara State Governor Dauda Lawal to publicly swear by the Holy Quran if they claim to have no involvement in the banditry that is plaguing Zamfara State and the broader northwest region.

    During an interview on Channels Television on Tuesday, September 24, Mattawalle asserted that he is the only Governor of Zamfara State who has sworn an oath by the Holy Quran to affirm that he has no ties to bandits or any interest in the criminal activities they carry out in the state.

    He also added that he required his aides, commissioners, and councillors to take similar oaths before their appointments.

    It will be recalled that the incumbent governor of Zamfara State, Lawal, had earlier asked Mattawalle to resign his position as Minister of Defense due to his alleged involvement in banditry.

    Responding to the allegations, Mattawalle challenged anyone with proof of his involvement in aiding bandits to come forward and present the evidence.

    The former governor, who described Zamfara as a “very complex and devilish state to govern,” also recalled that he was not the only governor who dialogued with bandits, noting that the former governors of Sokoto, Niger, and Katsina negotiated with bandits to prevent the collapse of their states.

    Asked why he was accused of aiding banditry, Mattawalle responded: “They should bring any proof for that.”

    He added: “Because I dialogued with bandits? I was not the only one that dialogued with the bandits. The Governor of Niger State, Abu Sani Bello, the Governor of Sokoto, Aminu Waziri Tambuwal, and the Governor of Katsina dialogued with them. So why only me?

    “Because Zamfara is a very small and complex state with terrible human beings with devilish ideas.

    “The people of Zamfara will not like me because I’m fearless and can confront anyone. Most of those involved in this heinous act don’t like me because I go after all of them. Those destabilizing the state are politicians.

    Read Also: A cowardly assault on honour: exposing the lies against Matawalle

    “Let me remind you, during my term, I was the only governor who swore with the Holy Quran that I have no hands or connection with banditry and that I’m not happy with what is happening. I swore with the Holy Quran that if I’m happy with what is happening, or if I’m part of it or know those doing it, or if I collaborate with them, God should not give me one second of grace.

    “And I challenged all the politicians then, including General Ali Gusau and Dauda (Zamfara Governor), to come and do the same, but none of them took the oath. I took the oath because I had a clean mind, and not just that, I ensured that all my councillors, chairmen, and commissioners took the oath before appointments that they had no hand in the criminal activities in the state. Go and check, the record is there.

    “I challenge those people to take that same oath. None of them has taken that oath till today since I challenged them,” Matawalle said.

  • A cowardly assault on honour: exposing the lies against Matawalle

    A cowardly assault on honour: exposing the lies against Matawalle

    By Muniz Usman

    The recent article titled “A Bandit in the Ministry: The Case Against Bello Matawalle,” penned by Professor Abdussamad Umar Jibia, is nothing more than a disgraceful attempt to tarnish the reputation of the Honourable Minister of State for Defence, Dr. Bello Muhammed Matawalle MON. It is filled with baseless allegations, malicious innuendos, and outright fabrications that seek to undermine the honour and integrity of a man who has dedicated his life to public service.

    A Reckless Attack Wrapped in Falsehood

    Professor Jibia’s piece is a textbook case of character assassination—thinly veiled as an opinion piece—meant to deceive and misinform the public. The allegations, from the alleged involvement with bandits to the supposed defense of criminals, are nothing short of preposterous innuendos. Let’s dissect these lies for what they are: desperate attempts to twist the narrative against Dr. Matawalle for political reasons.

    The professor’s account is filled with inconsistencies, misinformation, and lacks any shred of evidence. His narrative about the turbaning of Ado Aleru and the other sensationalized stories of bandits supposedly receiving Hilux trucks and personal support from Dr. Matawalle is not only false but insulting to the intelligence of the Nigerian people. At no point in his article does Jibia provide credible sources or hard evidence to back up his wild accusations. It is nothing but a hodgepodge of hearsay and rumours recycled to attack a man who has served the country with dignity.

    The Devious Role of Sheikh Murtala Bello Asada

    In this cowardly attempt to besmirch the good name of Dr. Matawalle, Professor Jibia has found an equally unreliable partner in the form of Sheikh Murtala Bello Asada. Asada, a supposed religious figure, has made a habit of spewing baseless accusations and incendiary comments in public forums. His slanderous claims about Dr. Matawalle’s alleged association with criminals like Turji and Haruna Dole are nothing more than fabrications concocted to incite public outrage. These accusations lack any real basis in fact, and Sheikh Asada’s so-called “evidence” is nothing but the rantings of an opportunist desperate for attention.

    Read Also: Tinubu to citizens: your sacrifices will soon yield lasting economic benefits

    Asada’s challenge to Dr. Matawalle to take him to court is laughable, given the complete lack of credibility in his claims. It is high time that figures like Asada are held accountable for the damage they seek to cause by fanning the flames of discord with their unfounded allegations.

    Matawalle: A Beacon of Service and Sacrifice

    Dr. Bello Matawalle has categorically denied these ridiculous allegations, stating unequivocally, “I have never supported nor fraternized with criminals or bandits in any capacity. My commitment to peace, security, and the welfare of the Nigerian people is unwavering.” His actions as the Governor of Zamfara and now as Minister of State for Defence have been centered around improving security, not undermining it.

    As a man who has faced the complex challenges of security in Zamfara State, Dr. Matawalle worked tirelessly to create initiatives aimed at reducing violence and fostering peace. His efforts, while difficult, were borne out of a genuine desire to see an end to the suffering of his people. Those who have closely followed his career know that he has always advocated for a strategic, multifaceted approach to combat insecurity—an approach that prioritizes dialogue, security reinforcement, and community engagement.

    It is important to remember that as the Governor of Zamfara, Matawalle inherited a state ravaged by years of neglect and systemic insecurity. To suggest that he, of all people, would align himself with the very criminals wreaking havoc on his people is not only illogical but deeply offensive. Professor Jibia’s attempt to twist this reality is a sad commentary on the lengths some individuals will go to pursue their own agenda.

    An Academic in Disgrace

    Professor Jibia’s article is not just a reflection of his own desperation but a disgrace to the principles of responsible journalism and academic integrity. Instead of presenting a well-reasoned argument backed by facts, he resorts to tabloid-style sensationalism, effectively turning his platform into a megaphone for baseless conspiracy theories. Such behavior is unbecoming of a man who claims to be a professor. Rather than educate and inform, Jibia has chosen to deceive and mislead, abandoning the ethics of truth and fairness.

    What’s even more appalling is the professor’s call for Dr. Matawalle to be removed from the Ministry of Defence on the basis of unsubstantiated claims. Jibia’s suggestions are as reckless as they are unfounded. His eagerness to cast aside due process and throw around accusations without any legal backing exposes his true intentions: to sow confusion and chaos.

    The Truth Must Prevail

    In times like these, it is essential that we, as Nigerians, remain vigilant against the forces of misinformation and slander. Dr. Matawalle has shown himself to be a man of integrity, focused on the safety and security of the nation. The Honourable Minister is fully committed to his duties in the Ministry of Defence and will continue to work with the Armed Forces to eradicate banditry and terrorism in all its forms.

    To Professor Jibia and his fellow conspirators, we say this: your lies will not stand the test of time. The Nigerian people are smarter than you think. They will see through your desperate attempts to discredit a man who has served his country with honour and still serving and dazzling in his assignments. As for Sheikh Asada, his theatrics may earn him a few moments of attention, but truth and justice will ultimately prevail.

    Dr. Matawalle remains focused on his mission, undistracted by the baseless accusations thrown his way. As the Minister has said, “My conscience is clear, my hands are clean, and I will not be deterred by those who seek to distract us from the urgent work of securing our nation.”

    A Call for Unity and Accountability

    As a nation, we must rise above these cheap attacks and rally behind leaders like Dr. Bello Matawalle who are working day and night to ensure the safety and prosperity of Nigeria. We must demand accountability from those who seek to poison the public discourse with lies, and we must hold individuals like Professor Jibia and Sheikh Asada responsible for the damage their falsehoods attempt to inflict on our national unity.

    Dr. Matawalle’s service to Nigeria is far from over, and his commitment to the cause of security will continue to inspire hope for a brighter, safer future for all Nigerians.

    • Usman is a Public Analyst/ Opinion Perceptionist.

  • AYCF tackles Gov. Lawal over comment on Matawalle, calls for his resignation

    AYCF tackles Gov. Lawal over comment on Matawalle, calls for his resignation

    The leadership of the Arewa Youths Consultative Forum (AYCF) in reaction to recent comments and demands made by Zamfara state governor, Dauda Lawal, regarding the resignation of the Minister of State for Defence, Bello Mohammed Matawalle.

    AYCF in a statement issued by it’s President General Yerima Shettima said: “It is with utmost urgency and seriousness that we unequivocally state that it is not Minister Matawalle who should resign, but rather Governor Dauda Lawal himself, given the alarming evidence that has emerged of his involvement in financing terror groups operating within the region.

    In a recently circulated document titled: “Re-north-western governors/un-organized security summit in Katsina”, the intricate ties between Governor Lawal and criminal enterprises are laid bare.

    Within this document, a request is made for the staggering sum of one billion, three hundred and seventy-eight million naira to be allocated for a dubious state government reconciliation programme with notorious bandit leaders.

    The group said: “This initiative raises serious ethical and legal concerns, especially considering that the funds were earmarked for distribution to high-profile bandit leaders including Bello Turji, Dogo Gide, Ado Aliero, Halilu Sububu, and Gwaska Dan Karami, along with payoffs to certain media houses and influencers. 

    “Such transactions indicate a deep-seated complicity with the very elements who have wreaked havoc and fear throughout our communities.

    “Moreover, the recent actions and escalating desperation displayed by Governor Lawal seem to directly correlate with the significant setbacks he has experienced in his attempts to navigate the security crisis. 

    “Following the arrest of his former aide, Bashir Hadejiya, on serious charges of gun running and international criminal conspiracy, Lawal appears to have adopted a defensive position.

    “Additionally, the elimination of bandit leader Halilu Sububu and the diminishing power of criminal factions, attributed to the steadfast efforts of Minister Matawalle and the armed forces, have further exacerbated his unease.  

    “Governor Lawal’s calls for Matawalle’s resignation reflect not only a diversionary tactic but also a grave misunderstanding of the dire circumstances we face as a region. 

    “It is clear that the ongoing ‘fresh onslaught’ by Minister Matawalle has yielded palpable results in the battle against banditry, thereby weakening the affiliates of criminality that Governor Lawal appears to be shielding.

    Read Also: Zamfara elders back Matawalle on military onslaught against bandits

    “If we are to capitalize on the successes that have been achieved under Minister Matawalle’s stewardship, we must demand that Governor Lawal steps down. His tenure has fostered an environment where governance and criminality appear to overlap dangerously.

    “In light of the evidence against Governor Dauda Lawal and the implications it bears for our collective security, the AYCF is calling for the immediate resignation of the Governor. Should he fail to resign voluntarily, we advocate for the declaration of a total state of emergency in Zamfara State, which would entail the removal of Governor Lawal and the appointment of a military sole administrator. Such a measure is essential to restore order and address the deteriorating security situation through the proven methodologies employed by Minister Bello Mohammed Matawalle.”

    AYCF averred that the people of Zamfara and the broader region deserve governance that prioritizes their safety and well-being, adding that we cannot afford to maintain leaders whose interests seem to align more closely with criminals than with their constituents. “The time for decisive action is now,” the Forum stressed.

  • Zamfara elders back Matawalle on military onslaught against bandits

    Zamfara elders back Matawalle on military onslaught against bandits

    …warn Gov Lawal against distracting defence minister

    The group, under the auspices of Zamfara Elders Support for Peace and Development, has thrown its weight behind the minister of state for defence, Mohammed Bello Matawalle, over the ongoing military onslaught in Zamfara and the entire North West region.

    This was as the elders urged the Zamfara state governor, Dauda Lawal, to concentrate on how to deliver good governance to his subjects and leave Matawalle, alone, arguing that, Governor Lawal could do better by building unity, development, and political cohesion in the state rather than creating unnecessary tension and overheating the polity. 

    Speaking on behalf of the group during a visit to some flood victims in Gummi, Talata Mafara, and Kaura Namoda local government areas of Zamfara state, Hon Aliyu Mammani Kaura, said corruption and bad governance allegations levelled against Matawalle by his successor were uncalled for.

    According to Kaura, “We are aware there are large numbers of people, especially elites in the state, that are not happy with the kind of success recorded by the ongoing military operations against bandits, but we cannot deny the successes we have so far seen in the fight against banditry in our region.

    “We, therefore, call on the Minister of State Defense, Chief of Defense Staff, and Service Chiefs not to relent on their oars. They should continue to destroy all bandits’ enclaves and those benefitting from their nefarious activities in Zamfara, Sokoto, Katsina, and Kaduna states, respectively.

    Read Also: ‘Matawalle turning tide against Banditry in North West’

    “While commending the efforts and foresight of President Tinubu on the leadership support given to the military to flush out these terrorists, we want to remind him of being careful with sycophants, especially those hiding under executive chairs to unleash venomous hatred and mischief.”

    The group was reacting to what it called an “outburst” against the person of Matawalle by the governor on national television, describing it as nothing but mischievous intentions to divert the attention of Nigerians from ongoing success in the fight against banditry in his state.

    So far, the group has donated foodstuffs, toiletries, cement, and roofing sheets, among other relief items worth millions of naira, to some victims of the flood disaster in Zamfara state.

    He said: “To us, Matawalle’s era is much more transparent, beneficial, peaceful, and secure to the people of Zamfara compared to what we have now.

    “Today, our people are suffering poor governance, escalation of insecurity challenges, poor social amenities, and destruction of Zamfara economy and social life because their governor abandoned his constitutional duty; always on the run either to Abuja or out of the country without commensurate results to the state,” Kaura decried.

    He continued: “We were surprised how Peoples Democratic Party, PDP supporters in Zamfara are surviving with a truant political leader like Governor Dauda that have sacrificed their support for his luxury.

    “We know that Yarima, Shinkafi, Yari, and Matawalle are not saints, but they are more reliable, trusted, and dedicated to the progress and development of Zamfara state than Gov Dauda.

    “Government of Zamfara under present dispensation has turned into a more liability for the survival of an ordinary citizen of the state going about the escalation of insecurity that has destroyed social activities in the state capital and beyond.”

  • Matawalle’s working visit to Sokoto yielding positive results in the zone

    Matawalle’s working visit to Sokoto yielding positive results in the zone

    • By Idris Nasir

    In a major victory for security in Northwest Nigeria, the Nigerian military has successfully neutralized one of the most dangerous bandit kingpins, Halilu Buzu Sububu, marking a significant achievement in the ongoing fight against banditry in the region. This success comes shortly after the Honourable Minister of State for Defence, Dr. Bello Muhammed Matawalle MON, relocated the Command and Control Centre to Sokoto under the directive of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR.

    The move is part of President Tinubu’s broader strategy to restore peace and stability in the Northwest. Dr. Matawalle, alongside the service chiefs, has been working tirelessly to ensure that the president’s commitment to securing the region is fulfilled. The elimination of Halilu Sububu represents a major breakthrough in this mission.

    “President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is fulfilling his promise to the people of the Northwest. The elimination of this notorious bandit kingpin is a proof that we are making significant progress,” Dr. Matawalle stated.

    The Minister expressed his gratitude to the Nigerian Army and all security agencies involved in the operation, noting that their determination and dedication are key to the ongoing success. He further assured that the fight to rid the region of banditry is far from over, but the government remains resolute.

    Read Also: Shettima pledges fed govt’s continued support to flood victims

    “We will not rest until every corner of the Northwest is free from the threat of banditry. The military, under the directive of President Tinubu, is now on a fight-to-finish mission, and we will continue to intensify our operations,” Dr. Matawalle said.

    The success of the military operations is being widely celebrated by citizens of zone especially Zamfara, Katsina and Sokoto states. This has brought a sense of relief to communities that have long suffered under the threat of banditry. Farmers, traders, and businesspeople, who have been among the worst hit, have expressed their appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR, Dr. Matawalle, and the Nigerian military for their efforts.

    “The joy and relief in these communities are palpable. This victory is a turning point, and it sends a strong message to the likes of Bello Turji and those who seek to destabilize our region – they will be brought to justice,” Dr. Matawalle added.

    The Nigerian military remains committed to continuing operations in the region until all bandit leaders and their groups are neutralized, ensuring lasting peace and security for the people of the Northwest.

     • Nasir is a public analyst

  • Insecurity: Matawalle vows to lead, ensure success of northwest operation against bandits

    Insecurity: Matawalle vows to lead, ensure success of northwest operation against bandits

    The Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle, has stated that the federal government is resolute in eradicating banditry, terrorism, and other crimes in the northern region.

    He pledged to lead the security forces in this mission, emphasizing that no effort would be spared in removing bandits from the area.

    Matawalle assured residents of Sokoto, Katsina, Zamfara, and Kebbi states, as well as the broader Northwest region, of the government’s commitment to ensuring their safety.

    “I will be on the ground with other security chiefs for the operations”, he vowed.

    Besides, Sokoto state governor Dr Ahmed Aliyu Sokoto noted the strategic commitment of President Tinubu stressing that the designed operations would surely tackle the menace with

    The governor highlighted that Security was at the front burner of his government’s 9-point smart agenda hence, the establishment of a Community Guard Corps (CGC) equipped with requirements to complement FG efforts on security.

    Read Also; Afrobeat is for ‘escapism’ not social commentary – Tems

    However, the Minister stressed that the safety of lives and property of citizens remains cardinal and the primary mandate of government.

    Matawalle who spoke in Sokoto on Tuesday, sought the support and cooperation of the state government and citizens in driving the presidential directive to achieve success in the North-west states.

    The Minister led others including Chief of Defense Staff (CDS), Gen. Christopher Musa on a courtesy visit to Governor Ahmad Aliyu.

    He said: “We are in Sokoto on President Bola Tinubu’s directives that I along with the military chiefs to relocate to Sokoto State to rid the North-West of the menace of banditry, kidnapping and terrorism.

    ”The directive is part of an intensified effort to end all forms of criminalities in recognition of the rising cases bedevilling the areas.”

    He disclosed that modalities were already mapped out to ensure the successful mission and thus expressed determination to flush out bandits gangs as he solicited people’s support to military operations with credible intelligence on bandits who he noted were part of their communities.

    ”Be vigilant against suspicious movements, those living flamboyant lifestyles without genuine source of income and unnecessary spending, do inform community leaders or nearest authority”, he urged stressing that “we should all be community watchers as those bandits, kidnappers and others were living around us and perpetrating their activities within us.”

    According to him, their activities were subjecting people to hardships explaining that the strategic move by the government has underscored its unwavering commitment to restoring peace and security in the northern region while referring that two Defense Ministers, National Security Advisers, CDS and the Minister of Police affairs were all from north hence, Tinubu’s uncompromised determination to end the menace happening in region.

    “I will be on the ground in the North West with the CDS and other military chiefs, leading our brave men and women in uniform.

    “I also call on residents of these states to remain vigilant and cooperate with the security forces as the Federal Government has resolved to protect the lives and properties of all Nigerians.

    Also, the minister held a closed-door meeting with Nigerian Army Officers at 8 Division Headquarters, briefings at 26 battalions of Nigeria Army Sokoto to where the delivered motivational address and government commitment.

    Matawalle also seized the space to visit wounded soldiers receiving treatment at the 8 Division Army hospital in Giginya barracks, Sokoto.

  • Congress condemns Bwala over Badaru, Matawalle ‘may need to go’ remark

    Congress condemns Bwala over Badaru, Matawalle ‘may need to go’ remark

    The Niger Delta Youth Congress (NDYC) has described as unfortunate the statements credited to Daniel Bwala, a former aide to ex-Vice President Atiku Abubakar, suggesting that the Ministers of Defence, Mohammed Badaru, and Bello Matawalle (State) might be shown the exit door from President Bola Tinubu’s administration.

    In a post on his X handle on Sunday, Bwala complained that Nigerians are now seeing a situation where “schoolboy errors result in ragtag bandits taking the nation’s armoured vehicles and munitions.”

    Bwala said: “If this perceived lack of cooperation between the air force and army continues, where we see schoolboy errors resulting in ragtag bandits taking our armoured vehicles and munitions, then both ministers of Defence may need to be shown the door out. No sentiments.”

    However, in a statement issued on behalf of the NDYC by Comrade Israel Uwejeyan, its national coordinator, on Monday, the body said the recent remarks made by Bwala, suggested the potential exit of the Honourable Ministers of Defence, His Excellency Mohammed Badaru, and the Honourable Minister of State for Defence, His Excellency Bello Matawalle, from President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration, is unsubstantiated.

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    Bwala’s remarks, the group said, aim to sow discord within the ranks of the nation’s security apparatus.

    In the statement which reads in part, the NDYC said: “Any perceived lack of cooperation between the Air Force and Army started in the President Buhari’s administration and is a matter of national security that is being adeptly handled by the relevant authorities, and it is not a subject for cheap political commentary,” it stressed.

    The NDYC therefore urged the Honourable Ministers of Defence to remain focused on their crucial responsibilities and not be distracted by the likes of Daniel Bwala, whose baseless accusations are motivated by a desire to curry favour with those in power, in the hope of securing an appointment as a presidential spokesperson or some other prominent role within the administration.

    The body also advised President Bola Ahmed Tinubu not to be swayed by the likes of Daniel Bwala, who has repeatedly demonstrated his lack of loyalty and cannot be trusted to serve in any capacity within his administration.

    “The President’s legacy should not be tainted by individuals whose primary objective is personal gain rather than the service of our great nation.

    “The NDYC believes that the President’s commitment to selecting individuals of integrity and loyalty to serve in his administration will guide him to make the right decisions in the face of such distractions”, it added.

    The NDYC further reiterated its support for the Ministers of Defence, while calling on all Nigerians to continue supporting the efforts of those who are genuinely committed to the peace and security of the nation.