According to the Daily Post, on Tuesday, December 9, 2025, the Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle, stated that the recent criticism directed at him is being driven by individuals who feel threatened by the security reforms introduced by the current administration ahead of the 2027 political climate.
In a statement issued by his media aide, Ibrahim Dosara, Matawalle said he has been subjected to coordinated, malicious and politically motivated attacks intended to tarnish his image and undermine the progress made in strengthening Nigeria’s security architecture.
He stressed that, in his words, “Public service demands courage, consistency, and a commitment to truth.”
The minister noted that he has seen “false allegations and malicious narratives” being circulated by opponents seeking to gain political advantage.
Matawalle further accused his detractors of exploiting sensitive security matters to push propaganda.
According to him, those orchestrating the attacks are politicians attempting to remain relevant and divert his attention from national duties.
He stated, “Attempts to drag my name into unrelated events are nothing but desperate political propaganda.”
He maintained that the accusations lack substance, insisting that the motives behind them are purely political and that the facts remain clear despite attempts to smear his reputation.
Matawalle pointed out that the issue of banditry had long been a deeply rooted problem before he assumed office as governor of Zamfara.
He said, “Banditry was not a problem that was invented under my watch; it had grown over decades.”
He explained that his administration rolled out organised security strategies, formed top-level committees, strengthened intelligence gathering and ensured the prosecution of offenders.
He added that traditional rulers found to be compromised were removed, while disarmament programmes were carried out with the support of the military.
The minister also noted that numerous abducted individuals were rescued during his tenure, and 11 Chinese nationals involved in illegal mining were deported. He said anyone attempting to distort these achievements is simply playing politics with the suffering of innocent people.
According to him, Zamfara experienced over a year without major security crises due to the measures implemented. He also recalled facing intimidation during efforts to secure the release of kidnapped schoolgirls in Kebbi, saying, “I received harassment and intimidation, but I refused to bow to pressure. Humanity comes first.”
Matawalle insisted that his critics are worried about the ongoing defence reforms and are driven by ambitions for the 2027 elections.
He reaffirmed his loyalty to the president, saying, “My loyalty to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu remains total No amount of propaganda will influence his decisions.”
He commended Nigeria’s security agencies for their dedication and professionalism during rescue operations. View, More,
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