The Minister of State for Defence, Dr Bello Matawalle, has condemned the alleged statement credited to former Minister of Transport Rotimi Amaechi calling for protest from Nigerians.
This is contained in a statement by Henshaw Ogubike, Director, Information and Public Relations, Ministry of Defence, made on Saturday in Abuja.
Amaechi is alleged to have called on Nigerian youths to rise in protest against anti-people government policies.
Reacting Matawalle condemned Amaechi’s call in the strongest of terms.
He cautioned the former minister to desist from inflammatory remarks that threaten the peace and stability of the nation.
He also accused the former minister of inciting violence and unrest among the Nigerian populace.
Matawalle also expressed deep concern over the dangers posed by such rhetoric.
“It is both reckless and irresponsible for a former public servant of Amaechi’s standing to incite Nigerians against their own government.
“At a time when President Bola Tinubu is working tirelessly to address the challenges facing the nation through various reforms that are yielding results.
“It is absurd, preposterous and shameful for anyone to exploit the genuine situation of our citizens for selfish political gain,” he said.
The Minister further reiterated Tinubu’s commitment to safeguarding the peace and security of every Nigerian, warning that any attempts to destabilise the country through incitement will not be tolerated.
“We will not allow anyone to fuel violence or manipulate the prevailing situation of our people.''
Matawalle also cautioned the former minister not to cast aspersions on the government's genuine intentions for the people.
“It is expected that Amaechi joins hands with the government to move the country forward, rather than choose to stay aside with myopic assertions,” he added.
'Do not relent': Ribadu, Matawalle told to annihilate bandit
Meanwhile, the Coalition of Northern Civil Society Organisations (CNCSOs) has praised National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu and Minister of State for Defence Bello Matawalle for their decisive efforts in curbing banditry in Northern Nigeria.
The group commended President Bola Tinubu's commitment to restoring peace, citing the appointments of Ribadu and Matawalle as transformative.
According to Alhaji Usman Usman, CNCSOs spokesperson, Ribadu's approach integrates military, political, and socio-economic strategies, which include cross-border cooperation and youth empowerment.
"Ribadu's expertise has strengthened Nigeria's security architecture, addressing evolving threats. We salute his dedication to protecting Nigerian lives," Usman stated.
He further highlighted Matawalle's leadership, noting his proactive engagement with traditional leaders and communities.
He said Matawalle's approach "brings hope to the troubled region" and has inspired confidence, especially following the elimination of notorious bandit leader Mai Hijabi.
Usman urged Nigerians to support both Ribadu and Matawalle, emphasising that community-based efforts remain essential.
"To Ribadu and Matawalle, we say: do not relent. Your work brings hope," he added.