The Federal Government has officially exonerated Dr. Bello Muhammed Matawalle, the Honourable Minister of State for Defence, from allegations of complicity in banditry in Zamfara State.
Following a thorough investigation, the Office of the National Security Adviser (NSA) found the accusations baseless and politically motivated.
In an interview on Arise TV, Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser on Information and Strategy to President Bola Tinubu, confirmed that the investigation concluded the allegations were “mere fabrications.”
He emphasized, “As far as I know, most of those things are just mere allegations.”
Onanuga added that the allegations were designed to discredit Matawalle ahead of the recent cabinet reshuffle, in hopes that he would be removed from his position. However, President Tinubu retained Matawalle in the cabinet due to his unwavering dedication to national security.
Onanuga stated, “For him to still be in the cabinet shows that some of those things have been probed. They are not true.”
Since his appointment, Matawalle has been credited with significant improvements in the security situation in the North West and across Nigeria. His leadership, particularly during his recent operational visit to Sokoto, resulted in the elimination of notorious bandit kingpin Halilu Sububu and several of his lieutenants.
Critics, including opposition figures uncomfortable with Matawalle’s political influence and close relationship with President Tinubu, were accused of spreading false claims to undermine his standing.
These unfounded allegations, according to Onanuga, were part of a “pull-him-down” strategy by Matawalle’s detractors.
The Federal Government is now urging those behind the misinformation campaign to retract their statements and issue public apologies.
“We are calling on the campaigners of these falsehoods to withdraw their allegations and apologize for spreading misinformation,” the statement read.
“They should reflect on their actions, which have caused harm, and instead support national security efforts by contributing to the country’s progress.”
With Matawalle cleared of wrongdoing, he continues his commitment to improving security in Nigeria, as evidenced by his leadership in Operation Hadarin Daji and his contributions to the fight against insurgency in the region.