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BELLO MATAWALLE MUST STEP DOWN OR BE SUSPENDED IN THE INTEREST OF NATIONAL SECURITY AND FOR FAIR AND PROPER INVESTIGATION

Published

9 months ago

December 23, 2025

By Barr. Hamza N Dantani

INTRODUCTION
Northern Nigeria continues to bleed from the scourge of banditry and terrorism. Communities are destroyed, livelihoods lost, and lives cut short. As a lawyer and human rights activist from the Northern part of the country, I have watched with deep concern this persistent insecurity that continues to devastate our region.

Against this grim background, the controversy surrounding the Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle, cannot be ignored, dismissed, or swept under the carpet. The allegations deserve urgent and sober national attention.

From his tenure as Governor of Zamfara State, Matawalle has been persistently accused of enabling or fraternising with bandits. These allegations were never conclusively investigated before he was appointed Minister of State for Defence under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. That decision raised legitimate concerns, given the sensitivity of the office and the gravity of the accusations.
Regrettably, the allegations have not abated. Instead, they have intensified, even as banditry and terrorism continue to ravage Zamfara State and large parts of Northern Nigeria.

CLERICAL WHISTLEBLOWING AND GRAVE ALLEGATIONS
One of the most persistent voices drawing national attention to these allegations is Sheikh Murtala Asada, a cleric based in Sokoto State. The Sheikh has consistently alleged that Bello Matawalle maintained close ties with bandits while serving as governor, accusing him of colluding with, appeasing, and materially supporting armed groups responsible for mass killings, kidnappings, and displacement.

According to Sheikh Asada, Bello Matawalle allegedly distributed vehicles to bandits using public funds during his tenure as governor. He further alleged that Matawalle purchased a house for Bello Turji, a notorious bandit leader designated as a terrorist, in Pakai, Shinkafi Local Government Area of Zamfara State. If true, this would amount to financing terrorism, an offence under Section 21 of the Terrorism (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, 2022.

The Sheikh also alleged that Matawalle facilitated the release of a known bandit, Haru Dole, by dispatching his aide, Dr. Bashir Maru, to stand as surety at the FIB office. Such conduct, if established, would fall under support for a terrorist group, contrary to Section 13 of the Terrorism (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, 2022.
Additionally, Matawalle was alleged to have officially distributed 2,000 bags of dusa (chaff) to bandits across fourteen local government areas in Zamfara State, an act that, at the very least, raises troubling questions about state policy and moral judgment in dealing with criminal elements.

Instead of publicly addressing these weighty allegations and submitting himself to scrutiny, Bello Matawalle chose to file a defamation suit against Sheikh Murtala Asada, a move widely perceived as an attempt to silence the Sheikh rather than transparently clear his name.
The Sheikh, however, is not alone.

INSIDER TESTIMONY BY MATAWALLE’S FORMER AIDE
More recently, a former aide to Matawalle, Musa Kamarawa, who identified himself as a Senior Special Assistant (SSA)during Matawalle’s governorship, made even graver allegations. He claimed that the minister “has police officers working for him who kill whomever he orders and spare whomever he chooses.”
Kamarawa further alleged that Matawalle colluded with security operatives to eliminate perceived enemies, protect allies, and facilitate dealings with notorious bandit leaders during his tenure as governor. In what amounts to one of the most damning aspects of his claims, Kamarawa corroborated Sheikh’s allegations and said the government of Zamfara State under Matawalle bought vehicles for Bello Turji, Halilu Sububu, and other bandits. He described it as part of the government’s “engagement strategy” at the time. He further claimed that he personally facilitated the procurement of another Hilux vehicle for the bandit leader, adding that criminal gangs operated with impunity during that period. Kamarawa went on to challenge Matawalle to deny the allegations under oath publicly.

These are not allegations coming from political opponents alone, but from someone who claims to have had access to the inner workings of government; someone with much to lose by speaking out. Numerous citizens of Zamfara State have echoed similar concerns over the years.
Surely, it defies logic to assume that clerics, former aides, community members, and civil society voices are all engaged in a coordinated attempt to tarnish one man’s image without cause. As the saying goes, there is no smoke without fire.

BELLO TURJI, A DESIGNATED TERRORIST, DEFENDS MATAWALLE
Perhaps most disturbing is that Bello Turji himself, a known bandit kingpin, reportedly issued a public statement defending Bello Matawalle after earlier releasing a video that appeared to establish a relationship between them.
This raises a fundamental question that Nigerians deserve an answer to: Why would a government official, let alone a defence minister, have any form of relationship with a terrorist?

INSECURITY AS A HUMAN RIGHTS CRISIS
The ramifications of insecurity in Northern Nigeria cannot be overstated. It is not merely a security issue; it is a human rights catastrophe. It has led to the loss of countless lives, mass displacement, collapsed local economies, food insecurity, inflation, unemployment, and the erosion of trust in state institutions.
As a human rights activist, I find this situation unacceptable.

THE CASE FOR SUSPENSION PENDING INVESTIGATION
This article does not assert that Bello Matawalle is guilty of all the allegations raised against him. He remains entitled to the presumption of innocence pursuant to section 36(5) of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended). However, the allegations against him are grave, numerous, persistent, and increasingly corroborated by insiders. They are too serious to be ignored and too dangerous to be left uninvestigated. They warrant an independent, transparent investigation.

In the interest of national security, public confidence, and institutional integrity, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu should immediately suspend Bello Matawalle, or Bello Matawalles should do the honourable thing and step aside, pending the outcome of an independent investigation into these weighty allegations.

Such a suspension would not amount to a conviction. On the contrary, it would be in Matawalle’s own interest, allowing him to clear his name without the burden of office, while reassuring Nigerians that this administration is genuinely committed to tackling insecurity.

Today, many Nigerians believe that the government is merely paying lip service to the fight against insecurity. And who can blame them? You cannot convincingly wage a war against terrorism while retaining a defence minister under serious allegations of collusion with terrorists.

NOT POLITICS, BUT NATIONAL SURVIVAL
This is not a political attack, nor a sponsored campaign. It is not personal. It is a national security and human rights issue that affects us all. Rather than deploying social media influencers and TikTok defenders, Bello Matawalle should subject himself to lawful scrutiny and public accountability.

If the President, who has sworn an oath to protect the lives and property of Nigerians, fails to act, then a direct criminal complaint will be filed, inviting the court to compel a proper investigation into these allegations.
Nigeria’s security crisis demands courage, transparency, and accountability. Anything less is a betrayal of the victims whose voices have been permanently silenced by banditry and terrorism.

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Gov AbdulRazaq Lauded Over Conferment Of Sadauna Of Ilorin Title

Published

18 hours ago

September 16, 2026

Our Reporter

Stephen Olufemi Oni, Ilorin

Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq has been hailed for the conferment of the prestigious Sadauna of Ilorin Emirate title on him by His Royal Highness, the Emir of Ilorin, Alhaji (Dr.) Ibrahim Sulu-Gambari, CFR.

Giving the commendation on Tuesday in a statement in Ilorin, the state capital, Alhaji Yakubu Garba Gobir, who is the Sarkin Gobir and Madawaki of the Ilorin Emirate, described the recognition and honour on Governor AbdulRazaq as well deserved, timely and apt, giving his huge contributions to the growth and development of Ilorin Emirate and Kwara State as a whole.

Gobir specifically commended the Emir of Ilorin for conferring this distinguished title in recognition of the qualities and contributions of the new Sardauna, noting that it is a solemn call for greater responsibility, leadership, loyalty and devoted service to the Emirate and its people.

He added: “The title of Sardauna occupies a position of profound significance in the history, heritage and traditions of the Ilorin Emirate. I commend His Royal Highness, Alhaji (Dr.) Ibrahim Sulu-Gambari, CFR, the Emir of Ilorin, for conferring this distinguished title in recognition of the qualities and contributions of the new Sardauna.

“The title embodies courage, leadership, loyalty and devoted service to the Emirate and its people. Your elevation is therefore not merely a mark of honour; it is also a solemn call to greater responsibility and continued service.

“As a fellow title-holder in the Ilorin Emirate, I am particularly delighted to welcome you into this distinguished circle of traditional leadership. I am confident that you will bring to the office the same qualities of leadership, dignity and unwavering commitment to public service that have distinguished your tenure and career.

“At a time when our Emirate and our State require men and women of character, wisdom and courage to advance the interests of our people, I am certain that you will make a meaningful contribution to the enduring unity, progress and development of the Ilorin Emirate.”

Gobir offered prayers for a successful, impactful and enduring tenure for the new Sadauna, adding:
“May Almighty Allah grant you wisdom, sound health and strength, and may He make your tenure as Sardauna of Ilorin a source of lasting honour to you, your family and the entire Ilorin Emirate.”

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FG Commissions KWASU ICT Centre To Enhance Graduates Employability

Published

19 hours ago

September 16, 2026

Our Reporter

Stephen Olufemi Oni, Ilorin.

The wife of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, has commissioned a TETFund/Renewed Hope Initiative-backed ICT Experience Centre at the Kwara State University (KWASU), Malete.

It would be recalled that KWASU is one of the six tertiary institutions selected for the pilot phase of this intervention, with one institution representing each of the Nigerian six geopolitical zones.

Represented at the commissioning on Tuesday by the wife of the Vice-President, Nana Shettima, Tinubu said the project is a testament to the federal government’s commitment to advancing education, digital inclusion and enhancing graduate employability.

“The TETFund/Renewed Hope Initiative ICT Experience Centre we are commissioning today represents opportunity, innovation, knowledge, and the future of young people in Kwara State and beyond.

She said: “This initiative aligns with the Renewed Hope Agenda of the administration of His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, which places emphasis on youth empowerment, education, innovation, and economic transformation. Mr President is committed to creating opportunities that will equip Nigerian youths with knowledge and skills required to thrive in a modern and competitive world.”

Senator Tinubu said the facility was designed as a modern technology centre equipped with ICT laboratory, interactive digital display, conference facility, and exhibition spaces, adding that it would be an environment for learning, creativity, research, and technology advancement.

According to her, the ICT centres had been commissioned at the Ekiti State University on May 28, University of Cross Rivers State on September 4, Anambra State Polytechnic on September 10, adding that the Centres at Kaduna State University and Taraba State Universities would be commissioned soon.

“The next phase of this intervention will cover 15 institutions in Adamawa, Bayelsa, Borno, Delta, Edo, Enugu, Imo, Katsina, Nasarawa, Niger, Ondo, Osun, Rivers, Yobe, and Zamfara states which construction is currently ongoing. This expansion demonstrates the administration’s commitment to ensuring that more Nigerian youths, irrespective of their locations, have access to digital learning opportunities,” she said.

She encouraged the students to take ownership of the facility, maximise the opportunity it provides, and use technology positively to enhance their lives, community, and the nation.

In his speech, the Executive Secretary of Tetfund, Architect Sonny Echono, said the centres are being established across selected Universities, Polytechnics and Colleges of Education, with the Kwara State University, Malete proudly hosting the facility in the North-Central Zone.

“Through practical training and digital skills acquisition, TETFund seeks to enhance graduate employability, foster innovation and position Nigeria to participate more effectively in the global
technology-driven economy,” he added.

Echono also said that the ICT Experience Centre is designed to equip students and lecturers with critical digital skills in Artificial Intelligence, Cybersecurity, Robotics and Software Development.

He added: “The Centre being commissioned today is one of the foremost ICT Experience Centres being delivered across the country, and the third to be commissioned this year. The Centre is equipped with modern digital devices, Computer systems and relevant software to facilitate training, practical learning and skills development. The facility is appropriately furnished and
fully air-conditioned, with supporting power and municipal infrastructure.”

Also speaking, the Vice Chancellor of the University, Professor Shaykh- Luqman Jimoh, said the new facility represents vision, belief, and an investment in the Nigerian youth to better shape the future of our
nation.

The Vice Chancellor described the ICT Experience Centre as an investment in human capital, in innovation, in entrepreneurship, and, most importantly, it is an investment in the future of Nigeria.

“This Centre will provide opportunities for our students to develop practical digital skills and engage with contemporary technologies. Importantly, it is our hub for interdisciplinary engagement.

“This ICT Experience Centre is therefore a timely, critical, and strategic infrastructure that will definitely enhance research, teaching, learning, entrepreneurship, and community service. This intervention is at the core of what this university seeks from partners and donors: synergies that add value and impact on today and the future,” he started.

KWASU Vice Chancellor also assured that the ICT Experience Centre would be put to maximum use for the benefit of students, researchers, and the University
community, adding that the “KWASU community would engage with the facilities in this Centre, we will use it. We will explore, experiment, learn, and innovate in i

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2027: Violent ;Kaduna as ADC, APC Supporters Trade Accusations….APC Calls For Police Investigation into the Vandalisation, attacks on its Office

Published

19 hours ago

September 16, 2026

Our Reporter

By Hassan Agboola

Tension is mounting in Kaduna State ahead of the 2027 general elections, following renewed exchanges between supporters of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) and groups backing the administration of Governor Uba Sani.
The latest development came on Tuesday when ADC governorship candidate, Isa Ashiru, addressed supporters in Kaduna and, according to an account of his remarks, declared that the party was prepared to respond to attacks against its members.
Ashiru was also quoted as saying that it was Governor Uba Sani, rather than President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, who was responsible for the continued detention of former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai.

However, available public records show that El-Rufai’s detention followed proceedings before the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC), with the commission stating that his continued custody was based on a court-issued remand order.

The controversy over El-Rufai’s detention has nevertheless become a major political issue in Kaduna and beyond. The ADC has repeatedly criticised the handling of the former governor’s case and alleged political persecution, while other political actors have made different claims about the circumstances surrounding his detention.
Rising political temperature

Ashiru’s emergence as the ADC governorship candidate has added another dimension to the political contest in Kaduna. He defeated other aspirants at the party’s governorship primary in May 2026 and is now preparing for another governorship contest after previously representing the PDP in the 2019 and 2023 elections.
The political atmosphere has been further complicated by disagreements within the ADC and accusations from different groups over the party’s leadership and candidates.

A Southern Kaduna political group, for instance, recently questioned Ashiru’s candidacy and the choice of his running mate, allegations rejected by an ADC official.
The situation has also produced incidents involving ADC supporters and security personnel. In one recent incident, police dispersed an ADC solidarity walk in Kaduna, while the party subsequently accused opponents of attacking its members and warned that political violence could escalate ahead of the 2027 elections.

The former governor remains an important factor in the emerging political contest. El-Rufai was taken into custody in February 2026 after responding to an invitation from the ICPC. His family subsequently demanded his release, while the anti-graft agency maintained that his detention was authorised by a court.
Since then, the issue has increasingly featured in political statements by the ADC and its supporters, with the party accusing the Federal Government of political persecution and calling for the former governor’s release.
The development has created a new political fault line involving the ADC, the APC-led Kaduna State Government and supporters of the former governor.

While allegations have been exchanged over who is responsible for political violence in Kaduna, the competing narratives should not be confused with established findings. The ADC itself has recently rejected the suggestion that it has a monopoly on political violence and accused unnamed opponents of introducing thuggery into the 2027 political process.

With the 2027 election campaign yet to fully commence, the increasingly combative language from ISA Ashiru and his supporters has raised concerns about the possibility of further confrontation.
The immediate challenge before the political parties, security agencies and community leaders is therefore to ensure that political disagreements do not degenerate into violence, particularly in a state with Kaduna’s history of politically and communally sensitive conflicts.
As at the time of filling tid report the All progressive congress, APC , Kaduna state in a statement has condemned the attacks on its office and called for police investigation
Certainly. I’ll retain the substance of the report while correcting grammar, tightening the structure, and presenting it as a clean newspaper hard-news story.
Writing
APC Condemns Violent Attacks on Members, Party Offices in Kaduna
The Kaduna State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has condemned alleged violent attacks on its members and the vandalisation of party offices and properties in the state.
The party also called on the police and other security agencies to investigate the incidents and ensure that those responsible are brought to justice.
In a statement, the Kaduna State APC Publicity Secretary, Sani Dan-Azare, alleged that some of the party’s members and supporters had been attacked, while some party and support-group offices were vandalised.
He also alleged that vehicles belonging to some party members were damaged during the incidents.
The APC described the attacks as unacceptable and urged security agencies to conduct a thorough and impartial investigation to establish the circumstances surrounding the incidents.
The party called on its members and supporters to remain calm and law-abiding, stressing that they should not resort to retaliation or take the law into their own hands.
The APC said it remained committed to peaceful political engagement and urged all political actors in Kaduna State to conduct their activities within the bounds of the law.
It further appealed to security agencies to strengthen security around party offices and other sensitive locations to prevent further incidents.