Former Nigerian Lawmakers Reject US Call to Sack Defence Minister Matawalle
A group of former Nigerian lawmakers has strongly rejected calls from a United States legislator seeking the removal or redeployment of the Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle. The Former Parliamentarians Forum described the demand as misguided and lacking a deep understanding of Nigeria's intricate and long-standing security challenges.
Forum Criticises External Pressure on Domestic Security Matters
In a statement made available to the media, the Forum, chaired by Gabriel Idoko, argued that the remarks by US Representative Kimberly Daniels risk simplifying a complex national issue and could disrupt ongoing efforts to address insecurity. The group cautioned against drawing conclusions based on selective readings of events in parts of northern Nigeria, where recent attacks have led to deaths and abductions.
Kimberly Daniels, a member of the US House of Representatives, had urged President Bola Tinubu to review Nigeria's security leadership, citing concerns about leadership within the defence structure. She called for the "removal or redeployment" of Matawalle, stating that her position was informed by appeals from Nigerians affected by violence in the North Central and North West regions.
Daniels said, "The position I take on this issue is because of citizens reaching out to me from Nigeria. My connection to Nigeria as a minister of the Gospel of Jesus Christ and the Chairwoman of UN-WCD would not allow me to be silent."
Group Warns Against Simplistic Solutions and International Interference
The Forum dismissed the proposal as overly simplistic and counterproductive. "It is both simplistic and counterproductive to suggest that the removal or redeployment of one public official would resolve challenges that have evolved over decades," the statement read, attributed to a spokesperson named Moses.
The group maintained that Nigeria's security landscape requires continuity and coordination rather than abrupt changes influenced by outside voices. It pointed to the broader defence structure under President Tinubu, arguing that Matawalle operates within a system involving multiple agencies and layers of command. According to the statement, progress has been recorded in joint operations and intelligence sharing, even as violence persists in some areas.
"These efforts are neither accidental nor attributable to a single office. They are the product of sustained coordination among the armed forces, intelligence services, and political leadership. Disrupting that synergy on the basis of unverified allegations would be a disservice to national security," the statement added.
Concerns Over Allegations and Call for Due Process
Daniels' report also raised allegations of internal complicity in some attacks and urged stronger international action. In response, the Forum cautioned against what it described as the internationalisation of domestic security debates, warning that such interventions could heighten tensions and embolden armed groups if not grounded in verified evidence.
The group called for allegations to be handled through Nigeria's established legal processes, emphasising that accountability should follow due process within the country's legal framework rather than through public campaigns. It also defended Matawalle's experience as a former governor of Zamfara State, saying it provides valuable insight into the drivers of insecurity in rural areas.
Focus on Long-Term Solutions and Stability
While acknowledging the impact of recent attacks on communities, the Forum urged a focus on long-term solutions. It advocated for sustained investment in:
- Intelligence gathering
- Community policing
- Economic support for affected regions
The Forum concluded by urging both local and international observers to adopt a cautious approach when assessing Nigeria's security situation, warning that politicising the issue could undermine ongoing efforts to restore stability.
Background on Matawalle's Denial
In related news, Minister of State for Defence Bello Matawalle has previously denied allegations levelled against him by Governor Dauda Lawal of Zamfara State, who accused him of aiding banditry in the state. Matawalle's office responded that Governor Lawal had repeatedly made similar accusations, which the minister consistently denied.
