By Mike Odeh James
The Northern Elders Progressive Group has dismissed renewed calls for the resignation of the Minister of State for Defence, Hon. Bello Matawalle, describing the criticisms as “mischievous, exaggerated, and politically driven.”
Addressing journalists on Monday, the Coordinator of the group, Yusuf Abubakar, said recent media attacks targeting the minister were part of a broader political manoeuvring within the country’s public space, especially as federal security operations continue to record gains nationwide.
Abubakar noted that those calling for Matawalle’s removal were deliberately ignoring the improved tempo of military operations in several regions, including the North West and North East, where terrorists and bandits have suffered major setbacks in recent months.
He stressed that the group would not remain silent while “a few disgruntled politicians attempt to distract a committed public servant” at a time when the security architecture is undergoing critical reforms.
Abubakar also urged Nigerians to be wary of what he described as sponsored campaigns aimed at destabilising progress in the defence sector, adding that Matawalle had demonstrated “uncommon patriotism and dedication” since assuming office.
He called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to disregard the calls for resignation, insisting that the minister enjoys widespread support among stakeholders in the North.
According to him, the group remains confident that ongoing security operations will continue to yield positive results, provided political actors refrain from making statements capable of undermining the morale of the armed forces.
Middle-Belt Times 