Attacks On Matawalle Politically Orchestrated – Northern Elders Group

MaTaZ ArIsInG
Dallas, Texas

The Northern Elders Progressive Group has criticised renewed calls for the resignation of the Minister of State for Defence, Hon. Bello Matawalle, describing the wave of attacks as “mischievous, exaggerated, and politically motivated”.

Speaking to journalists in Sokoto, the group’s Coordinator, Yusuf Abubakar, argued that the criticisms circulating in parts of the media were part of a broader political agenda, despite clear gains recorded in national security operations.

Abubakar noted that some analysts have attempted to tie lingering insecurity in the North-West to alleged shortcomings in the Ministry of Defence. Such claims, he said, deliberately ignore the complex nature of Nigeria’s security challenges, as well as the notable improvements recorded under the current administration.

According to him, since assuming office, Matawalle has contributed significantly to reforms aimed at strengthening defence institutions, modernising military assets, and deepening inter-agency collaboration.

He highlighted the minister’s role in driving closer coordination between the Army, Navy, Air Force, Police, and intelligence services, a synergy he described as critical to recent gains in counter-terrorism and anti-banditry operations across the country.

One notable example, Abubakar stressed, was the successful rescue of abducted schoolgirls in Maga, Kebbi State, which he linked to improved operational alignment under Matawalle’s supervision.

Similar progress, he added, has been recorded in the North-East, where more insurgents have surrendered, and in the North-Central, where kidnapping rings along major highways in Niger, Kogi, and Kwara States have been disrupted.

In the South-South region, intensified maritime patrols have helped curb oil theft and protect national assets, while targeted operations continue against violent criminal networks in the South-East.

Addressing the North-West specifically, a region historically plagued by banditry, Abubakar said federal military offensives have intensified under the minister’s watch.

He pointed to coordinated airstrikes, the dismantling of bandit enclaves, and the disruption of supply routes as evidence of renewed federal resolve.

The group also applauded Matawalle’s push for better troop welfare, including improved allowances, enhanced logistics, and the deployment of tactical drones and rapid-response vehicles.

“Communities that were once abandoned are now witnessing gradual recovery. Farmers are returning to their farmlands, and intelligence-sharing between residents and security agencies has significantly improved”, Abubakar said.

He attributed the rising media attacks on the minister to political rivalries within the Northwest, insisting that critics should prioritise national interest over political scheming.

Abubakar commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for entrusting Matawalle and the National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, with key roles, describing both officials as competent and results-driven.

“The President who appointed them knows their capacity. Hon. Bello Matawalle remains a central figure in the nation’s security architecture, and his achievements are evident across regions”, he stated.

The group urged politicians, commentators, and the media to refrain from pushing narratives that could undermine national security engagements, warning that such actions were unpatriotic.

“As Nigeria confronts evolving security threats, what the country needs is unity and cooperation not unnecessary politicisation”, Abubakar added.

1SUBSCRIBE TO OUR NEWSLETTER NOW

Support MATAZ ARISING’ journalism of integrity and credibility.

Good journalism ensure the possibility of a good society, an accountable democracy, and a transparent government.

We ask you to consider making a modest support to this noble endeavour.

0.00USD

Amount
0.00

TEXT AD: To advertise here – Email ad@matazarising.com

LATEST POSTS