Group  Backs Matawalle, Rejects ‘Baseless’ Calls for His Removal

By Mike Odeh James

The Arewa Joint Initiative for Peace (AJIP) has declared its unwavering support for the Minister of Defence, Bello Matawalle, dismissing ongoing calls for his removal as unfounded and politically motivated.

The group described the campaign against Matawalle as a misguided effort allegedly sponsored by Zamfara State Governor, Dauda Lawal, warning that such actions undermine national unity and ongoing efforts to address insecurity in the North.

In a statement signed by its Director-General, Musa Danbaki, AJIP said the move to discredit the Defence Minister was rooted in desperation rather than genuine concern for national security.

“It is imperative to recognize that the recent political maneuvers by Governor Lawal are borne out of desperation,” the statement said. “As a leader who has consistently aligned himself with bandit leaders, Lawal’s attempts to discredit Minister Matawalle stem from a fear of exposure.”

According to the group, Matawalle has remained a consistent advocate for peace and security, working to dismantle violent networks that have plagued communities across the region.

“Matawalle has been a stalwart advocate for peace and security in our region, tirelessly working to dismantle the networks of violence that have plagued our communities,” the statement noted. “His commitment to transparency and accountability threatens the very foundations of Lawal’s alliances, forcing the governor to seek distractions through baseless allegations against a man who has dedicated his life to national service.”

AJIP further argued that the calls for Matawalle’s removal go beyond personal attacks, describing them as part of a broader political strategy aimed at weakening President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s political support base ahead of the 2027 elections.

“By targeting Matawalle, who has emerged as a key pillar of support for the President in the North, detractors seek to destabilize the administration’s efforts to foster stability and growth in the region,” the group said.

The group commended the Defence Minister’s performance in office, crediting him with policies that have contributed to improvements in Nigeria’s security landscape.

“Under his stewardship, there has been a concerted effort to engage communities, empower local leaders, and create sustainable pathways to peace,” the statement said. “His initiatives address not only banditry but also the socio-economic drivers of unrest.”

AJIP reaffirmed its solidarity with President Tinubu, stressing that unity and collaborative leadership remain critical to overcoming Nigeria’s security challenges.

“We must reject divisive rhetoric and focus on dialogue, cooperation, and support for leaders committed to the welfare of our people,” the statement added.

The group urged citizens of Zamfara State and the wider Northern region to resist what it described as misinformation and to stand firmly behind Matawalle and the Tinubu administration.

“The strength of our region lies in unity against common threats,” AJIP said. “We must not allow personal vendettas to distract us from the greater good.”

AJIP concluded by reiterating its full support for Minister Bello Matawalle and called on Nigerians to remain vigilant against narratives designed to undermine peace, security, and national cohesion.

ENDS.