By Edidiyong Ukpo
The Minister of State for Defence, Alhaji Bello Matawalle, has distanced himself from a circulating social media report claiming he said the Zamfara security initiative would not succeed without his involvement.
Matawalle described the report as a malicious fabrication aimed at tarnishing his reputation and undermining the Federal Government’s efforts to address the country’s security challenges.
He maintained that he never granted any interview making such a claim, explaining that he had only criticised Zamfara State Governor, Dauda Lawal, over what he described as the governor’s poor security strategy and lack of cooperation with the Federal Government.
Matawalle, a former governor of Zamfara State, said Governor Lawal’s refusal to carry him and other key stakeholders along in efforts to combat the state’s security crisis was unacceptable, especially as the issue had become a national concern.
He faulted the governor for meeting solely with the Minister of Defence, Alhaji Mohammed Badaru, without involving him, a minister from the state with responsibilities in defence matters.
“Everything should not be politicised. This is the time all hands should be on deck to tackle the security problems,” he said.
The minister further criticised the governor for directing security operatives in Zamfara to respond to threats without coordinating with Abuja, describing the move as a setback to ongoing efforts.
Matawalle said the report was a deliberate act of mischief by individuals bent on creating political tension and instability in the state.
He added that Premium Times, as a respected media organisation, should have verified the information from him or his aides before publication.
According to him, the media should not be used for political mudslinging. He stressed that as a key player in national security management, he had no reason to undermine any governor’s efforts, particularly in his home state where security challenges had worsened due to poor governance.
Matawalle reiterated the Federal Government’s commitment to securing communities and ensuring that displaced residents safely return to their farms, schools and homes.
He said the All Progressives Congress was determined to solve the country’s problems and that political alliances would not distract the government. He added that President Bola Tinubu’s commitment to peace, security, and socio-economic growth assured his re-election.
SIGNED
Ahmed Dan-Wudil,
Media Assistant to the Minister of State for Defence, Alhaji Bello Matawalle
November 27, 2025
Middle-Belt Times 