Tag: Matawalle

  • Matawalle: Defying Political Distractions to Combat Banditry in Zamfara

    Matawalle: Defying Political Distractions to Combat Banditry in Zamfara

    Dr. Bello Muhammad Matawalle, the minister of State for Defence, has found himself at the center of both political storms and commendations as he navigates Nigeria’s complex security challenges, particularly in Zamfara State.

    Known for his relentless commitment to fighting banditry, Matawalle’s actions in defense of Nigeria’s security are increasingly being politicized.

    Yet, his determination to see an end to the region’s ongoing violence remains undeterred.

    As a former governor of Zamfara and a key figure in the war against banditry, Matawalle has a unique understanding of the local terrain and the root causes of the insecurity plaguing the region.

    Since he was appointed by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Matawalle has made significant strides in addressing the bandit crisis in Zamfara.

    One of his most notable successes was the elimination of notorious bandit leader Halilu Sububu, achieved through coordinated efforts between the Ministry of Defence and the Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa.

    Matawalle’s proactive leadership, including his regular visits to the Sokoto base of Operation Hadarin Daji to boost troop morale, reflects his hands-on approach to combating the insurgency.

    However, Matawalle’s efforts have been met with political jealousy, as critics, particularly from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), have been attempting to discredit his good work.

    Instead of focusing on the urgent need to restore peace and security, the PDP has been viewing his progressive actions with myopic negativity tainted with    unfounded allegations, turning a critical national security issue into a political battleground.

    This politicization, as pointed out by various commentators like Usman Abdullahi, distracts from the real issues at hand—finding lasting solutions to the insecurity in Zamfara.

    Matawalle’s critics, particularly those within the political establishment, fear his growing influence and popularity among the Northern masses.

    His commitment to dismantling the networks of bandits and illegal mining operators, who have long exploited the region’s resources and created chaos, poses a direct threat to those who benefit from the  instability.

    This explains the vigorous attempts to undermine him, but Matawalle remains focused on his mission.

    The urgency of Zamfara’s situation cannot be overstated. The human cost of banditry is staggering, with communities devastated by kidnappings, murders, and forced displacement.

    The region’s socio-economic fabric is unraveling, with farmers unable to work in their fields, children kept from schools, and health services in disarray.

    While political distractions continue to cloud the security debate, Matawalle’s strategy—focusing on boosting troop readiness and eliminating key criminal figures—offers a glimpse of hope.

    Matawalle’s critics may continue their campaign against him, but the facts on the ground are clear: the fight against banditry is far from over, and the stakes for the people of Zamfara are higher than ever.

    If his critics put aside partisan politics and unite to support ongoing security efforts, there is a real possibility that Zamfara could finally see peace.

    In the meantime, Matawalle’s resolve to bring an end to the bandit crisis remains as strong as ever. His commitment to a secure, peaceful Zamfara is a testament to his leadership and patriotism in the face of both political opposition and security threats.

    *Malam Haruna Garba, a Public Analyst, wrote from Abuja

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  • Coalition Hail Matawalle, NSA Ribadu on Improved Security

    Coalition Hail Matawalle, NSA Ribadu on Improved Security

    Dr. Bello Muhammad Matawalle, the minister of State for Defence, and NSA Nuhu Ribadu, have been lauded by the Coalition of Northern Civil Society Organisations (CNCSOs) for their decisive and robust leadership in the ongoing battle against banditry and terrorism in Northern Nigeria.

    This commendation follows the recent successful military operation that led to the elimination of a notorious terrorist leader, Mai Hijabi, this is a significant breakthrough in the fight against insecurity in the region.

    The CNCSOs, through its spokesperson, Alhaji Usman Usman, eulogized Dr. Matawalle and the National Security Adviser (NSA), Nuhu Ribadu, for their strategic roles in restoring peace and security to the North. Alhaji Usman remarked, “The leadership of Matawalle and Nuhu Ribadu has brought renewed hope to the troubled region. The elimination of Mai Hijabi under their watch demonstrates effectiveness and dedication to ending terrorism.”

    The Coalition further emphasized that the appointment of Matawalle and Ribadu by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu was pivotal to the positive changes being witnessed in Northern Nigeria and also epitomizes President Bola Ahmed Tinubu commitment to restoring peace and stability in Northern Nigeria.

    According to the coalition, the armed forces, under their leadership, has integrated robust strategies that combine military, political, and socio-economic measures to combat insecurity.

    “Matawalle’s approach has inspired confidence among Nigerians. His resolve to rid the North-West of terror is evident in the results being achieved on the ground,” Usman stated.

    In his response, Dr. Matawalle reaffirmed his unwavering commitment to ensuring peace across Northern Nigeria.

    He urged Nigerians to remain steadfast in their support of the armed forces and other security agencies, stating, “Together, we will defeat those who seek to terrorize our people. The success of our operations is a testament to the resilience and dedication of our forces, and we will not relent.”

    He added: “Let me remind you that I am the only Governor that has sworn by the Holy Quaran that I have no hand or connections with banditry and I am not happy with what is currently happening ” Matawalle said

    The CNCSOs called on all Nigerians to rally behind Matawalle and Ribadu, underscoring the importance of community support in the fight against terrorism and banditry. “The Coalition stands with you. Together, we can achieve a safer Nigeria.”

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  • Matawalle Commends Military for Neutralizing Bandit Leaders

    Matawalle Commends Military for Neutralizing Bandit Leaders

    The Minister of State for Defence, Dr. Bello Muhammed Matawalle, has reaffirmed the Federal Government’s unwavering commitment to defeating banditry and restoring lasting peace in the North-West.

    During his security engagements in Sokoto State on Friday, 11th October 2024, Dr. Matawalle witnessed the handover of critical military assets and received operational briefings on recent successes in the fight against insurgency.

    Dr. Bello Muhammed Matawalle, the minister of State for Defence 2
    Dr. Bello Muhammed Matawalle, the minister of State for Defence with miliary leaders

    At the Sokoto State Government House, the Honourable Minister oversaw the formal handover of 10 operational vehicles to military forces, including 8 Buffalo trucks and 2 Toyota Hilux, generously donated by the Sokoto State Government.

    Praising the state for its continued support, Dr. Matawalle said, “The security of our nation demands a collective effort at every level. The Sokoto State Government has consistently demonstrated its dedication to this cause.

    Dr. Bello Muhammed Matawalle, the minister of State for Defence 2
    One of the vehicles presented to the miliary

    These vehicles will greatly improve the operational capacity of our forces across the region.”

    He further emphasized that the new fleet would enhance the mobility and efficiency of troops as they respond to security threats.

    Following the handover, the Minister received an extensive operational briefing from the Air Component of Joint Operation Hadarin Daji.

    Dr. Bello Muhammed Matawalle, the minister of State for Defence 2
    The vehicles presented to the miliary

    Dr. Matawalle lauded the precision and effectiveness of recent air and ground operations, which have led to the neutralization of several high-profile bandit leaders.

    “Your achievements are a testament to your professionalism and dedication,” he remarked. “The Federal Government will not relent in providing the support you need to sustain these victories. We will not rest until peace is fully restored in the North-West.”

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