The Northern Elders Progressive Group has rejected recent calls for the resignation of the Minister of State for Defence, Hon. Bello Matawalle, describing the criticisms as “mischievous, exaggerated, and politically motivated.”
Speaking to journalists on Monday, the group’s Coordinator, Yusuf Abubakar, said the media attacks on the minister were part of a wider political agenda, particularly at a time when federal security operations are achieving measurable success across the country.
Abubakar argued that linking insecurity in parts of the North-West to alleged deficiencies within the Ministry of Defence oversimplifies Nigeria’s complex security landscape. He highlighted Matawalle’s contributions in reforming defence operations, modernising military capabilities, and enhancing coordination among the Army, Navy, Air Force, Police, and intelligence services.
Citing recent successes, Abubakar pointed to the coordinated rescue of abducted schoolgirls in Maga, Kebbi State, and the surrender of insurgents in the North-East, as well as disrupted kidnapping syndicates in Niger, Kogi, and Kwara States. He also noted that maritime patrols in the South-South have curtailed oil theft, while operations in the South-East continue to target violent criminal networks.
In the North-West, previously plagued by banditry, federal military offensives have intensified, with airstrikes, dismantled bandit camps, and cut-off supply routes demonstrating renewed commitment. Troop welfare has also improved under Matawalle, with enhanced allowances, better logistics, and the deployment of tactical drones and rapid-response vehicles.
“Many abandoned communities have been restored, farmers are gradually returning to their lands, and intelligence-sharing between local communities and security agencies has improved significantly,” Abubakar said, attributing attacks on the minister to internal political rivalries rather than performance shortcomings.
He praised President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for appointing experienced security officials like Matawalle and National Security Adviser Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, urging politicians and commentators to avoid politicising national security.
“As Nigeria continues to confront diverse security threats, what is needed is collaboration, not politicisation,” he added.
