Table of Contents
A diverse group of Nigerians has initiated a demand for the resignation of Bello Matawalle, the Minister of State for Defence, due to an old video of him that is currently circulating online.
The video, recorded by Channels TV in 2021, features Matawalle, who was then the Governor of Zamfara State, defending certain troublemakers in the region.
Matawalle made his comments at the State House in Abuja following a meeting with the then-President, Muhammadu Buhari.
While responding to journalists' inquiries regarding the activities of bandits in Zamfara State, Matawalle stated, “Not all of them are criminals.”
“Not all of them are criminals. If you investigate what is happening and the reasons that led them to take the law into their own hands, some of them have, at times, been wronged by the so-called vigilante groups.
“These groups often invade their settlements, destroy property, and seize their livestock. With no one to advocate for them, they sometimes resort to revenge. When the vigilante groups attack them, they retaliate. That is precisely what occurred,” Matawalle explained.
The video gained renewed attention shortly after Nigeria’s Defence Minister, Alhaji Mohammed Badaru, submitted his resignation.
Here are some reactions from X, formerly known as Twitter, as compiled by DAILY POST correspondent.
@A6udawud: “Matawalle consistently opts for negotiation with bandits rather than confrontation. He negotiated for the release of the Kebbi girls.”
“Tinubu should remove Matawalle, who has turned the Defence Ministry into a campaign platform.”
@tkayose: “The current Minister of State for Defence, former Zamfara State Governor Matawalle, once stated.”
“It’s no surprise that the APC Tinubu government continues to refer to bandits instead of terrorists. Why haven’t Matawalle and Gumi been arrested?”
@engr_shaibu_: “Matawalle claimed bandits aren’t criminals but rather misunderstood victims.”
“Now he’s the Minister of Defence. This empty-headed terrorist sympathizer is now responsible for shaping our security policy. He must be dismissed immediately!”
@RealQueenBee__: “You, who knew who he was, still gave him the position. I blame you, not him.”
Why are people calling for Bello Matawalle's resignation?
People are demanding his resignation due to an old video where he defends bandits, stating that "not all of them are criminals." This has raised concerns about his suitability for the role of Minister of Defence.
What did Matawalle say in the video that is causing controversy?
In the video, Matawalle claimed that bandits are not all criminals and explained that some have been wronged by vigilante groups, leading them to take revenge.
Eze Chidiebere Paul
I'm dedicated to creating high-quality content that informs, inspires, and delights. If you have any questions or suggestions, don't hesitate to get in touch. Happy reading!
