By Samuel Forani
The Minister of State for Defence, Alhaji Bello Matawalle, has distanced himself from a report circulating on social media claiming he said the Zamfara security initiative would not succeed without his involvement.
Matawalle described the report as a malicious attempt to tarnish his image, undermine his contributions, and discredit the Federal Government’s ongoing efforts to address insecurity across the country.
He said he never granted any interview making such a claim, explaining that his only public comments were criticisms of Zamfara State Governor Dauda Lawal’s security strategy and the governor’s alleged failure to cooperate with the Federal Government on mechanisms for tackling the state’s persistent security challenges.
Matawalle, who previously served as governor of Zamfara for four years, faulted Governor Lawal for sidelining him and other key stakeholders in discussions and plans aimed at restoring peace to the state, which he noted has become a national security concern.
He said the governor’s decision to meet solely with the Minister of Defence, Alhaji Mohammed Badaru, without involving him — a minister from the state also responsible for defence matters — was regrettable.
“Everything should not be politicised. This is the time all hands should be on deck to tackle the security problems,” Matawalle said.
He also condemned the governor for authorising security operatives to act without proper coordination with Abuja, saying the move created setbacks in efforts to stabilise the state.
According to Matawalle, the claims being circulated are sponsored mischief aimed at generating unnecessary political tension and instability in Zamfara.
He criticised Premium Times for not verifying the alleged statement from him or his media aides before publication, saying reputable media organisations must avoid being used as instruments of political mudslinging.
He stressed that as a key stakeholder in national security management, he would never undermine the efforts of any state governor, especially in his own state, where insecurity has escalated due to poor governance.
Matawalle reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to securing communities and ensuring displaced residents can safely return to their farmlands, schools and homes.
He added that the APC government remains dedicated to solving the country’s challenges and will not be swayed by political collusion. He further expressed confidence that President Bola Tinubu’s focus on leadership, peace, security and socio-economic development guarantees his re-election.
SIGNED
Ahmed Dan-Wudil,
Media Assistant to the Minister of State for Defence, Alhaji Bello Matawalle
November 27, 2025
South South Times . 