Table of Contents
- Recent Attacks
- Public Service Commitment
- Accusations Against Critics
- Addressing Banditry
- Security Measures Implemented
- Loyalty to the President
Bello Matawalle, the Minister of State for Defence, has stated that recent assaults against him are being orchestrated by individuals whose political aspirations for 2027 are jeopardized by the government's security reforms.
In a statement issued by his media aide, Ibrahim Dosara, he expressed that he is facing coordinated, malicious, and politically motivated attacks designed to undermine his reputation and diminish his efforts in enhancing Nigeria's security framework.
He remarked, “Public service requires courage, consistency, and a dedication to truth.”
Matawalle observed “false allegations and malicious narratives” disseminated by political opponents aiming to gain cheap political advantage.
He accused his detractors of exploiting sensitive security matters to generate propaganda.
He stated that those orchestrating the attacks are politicians seeking relevance and attempting to divert him from his responsibilities.
He asserted, “Efforts to associate my name with unrelated incidents are simply desperate political propaganda.”
He emphasized that the allegations are unfounded, the agenda is political, and the truth remains evident despite the smear campaigns.
Matawalle clarified that banditry was a longstanding crisis long before he took office as governor of Zamfara.
According to him, “Banditry was not an issue that emerged during my tenure… it has developed over decades.”
He noted that his administration implemented structured security measures, established high-level committees, enhanced intelligence efforts, and prosecuted offenders.
He also mentioned the removal of compromised traditional rulers and the execution of disarmament programs with military assistance.
The minister highlighted that thousands of kidnapped victims were rescued during his governorship, and 11 Chinese nationals involved in illegal mining were deported. He stated that anyone attempting to distort this record is politicizing the suffering of innocent citizens.
Matawalle also noted that Zamfara experienced over a year without significant security incidents due to these initiatives. He recounted facing harassment while working on the rescue of kidnapped schoolgirls in Kebbi, stating, “I encountered harassment and intimidation… but I refused to yield to pressure. Humanity comes first.”
He insisted that those targeting him are intimidated by the ongoing defense reforms and are driven by the upcoming 2027 political race.
He reaffirmed his loyalty to the president, stating, “My loyalty to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu remains unwavering… No amount of propaganda will sway his decisions.”
He commended Nigeria’s security agencies for their professionalism in rescue operations.
FAQs
What accusations has Bello Matawalle faced recently?
Bello Matawalle has faced coordinated attacks from political opponents whose ambitions are threatened by his government's security reforms, aimed at damaging his reputation.
What measures did Matawalle implement to address banditry?
Matawalle's administration introduced structured security measures, established high-level committees, improved intelligence efforts, and prosecuted criminals to combat banditry.
How does Matawalle view his critics?
He views his critics as desperate politicians attempting to distract him from his duties and create propaganda using sensitive security issues.
Eze Chidiebere Paul
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