The Democracy Watch Initiative (DWI), a prominent civil society organization, has issued a strong demand for an urgent and impartial investigation into serious allegations connecting the Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle, to bandit groups operating in Nigeria.
Heightened Public Concern Over Security Allegations
In a statement released on December 16, 2025, the group expressed deep concern over recent reports suggesting possible links between the minister and criminal elements responsible for widespread banditry. DWI emphasized that these claims have significantly heightened public anxiety, given the devastating impact of bandit attacks on communities across the nation.
Dr. Tunji Bamidele, the Director of Strategic Communication for DWI, presented the organization's position. He stated that allegations of collusion between a high-ranking government official and bandits pose a severe threat to public trust, national security, and democratic governance. The group warned that such accusations undermine the immense sacrifices made by security personnel and could erode confidence in the country's entire defence architecture if not addressed transparently.
Call for Transparency and an Independent Inquiry Panel
The Democracy Watch Initiative outlined specific steps it believes the government must take. Primarily, it called on relevant authorities to establish an independent inquiry panel. This panel, DWI insisted, must be free from political influence and should comprise legal experts, civil society representatives, and security analysts.
"The integrity of our nation’s leadership is paramount to the trust citizens place in their government," the statement read. "Allegations suggesting collusion between a high-ranking official and criminal elements threaten not only the efficacy of our defense mechanisms but also the very fabric of our democracy."
The group stressed that the implications are profound, casting a shadow over the efforts of security forces. It highlighted that banditry has led to tragic loss of lives, displacement of families, and a pervasive sense of insecurity that damages social cohesion.
Key Demands to Restore Public Confidence
DWI presented a clear set of demands to ensure a credible process. First, it called for the formation of an autonomous committee to conduct a bias-free investigation. Second, it demanded that the findings be made public in a timely manner to demonstrate that no individual is above the law.
Third, the organization emphasized the need to protect whistleblowers who come forward with information, ensuring they are safe from retaliation. Finally, DWI urged the government to reassess and strengthen its security strategies against banditry, regardless of the investigation's outcome. This includes enhancing community policing and fostering better collaboration between security agencies and local communities.
"The allegations against Minister Bello Matawalle are not just a matter of personal integrity; they are a reflection of the state’s commitment to uphold the rule of law and protect its citizens," the statement concluded. "We believe an independent investigation will clarify the truth and reaffirm the government’s dedication to justice. The time for action is now."
