The Minister of State for Defence, Dr. Bello Mohammed Matawalle, has urged opposition politicians to desist from actions and comments capable of inciting Nigerians against the constitutionally elected government of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, warning that such conduct does not advance democracy but only heats up the polity ahead of 2027.
In a statement issued on Friday by his Personal Assistant on Media, Ahmad Dan-Wudil, the minister described as “unfortunate” the reported decision by former Vice President Atiku Abubakar to engage a foreign lobbying firm in the United States to circulate decades-old documents relating to President Tinubu. “Such actions neither advance Nigeria’s democracy nor address the pressing challenges confronting the nation,” Dan-Wudil quoted the Minister as saying.
Matawalle, according to the statement, said rather than seeking to tarnish Nigeria’s image abroad and undermine the Presidency, opposition leaders should channel their energy toward supporting government efforts to tackle insecurity, strengthen national unity and improve the welfare of Nigerians. He stressed that the Presidency remains a national institution and a symbol of the country’s sovereignty that deserves respect irrespective of political affiliations.
The minister further declared that no foreign government or lobbying firm would determine Nigeria’s democratic choices or alter the mandate freely given by Nigerians. “Our political differences must never come at the expense of our country’s image and collective interest,” Dan-Wudil quoted him.
Drawing attention to recent international engagements, Matawalle noted that President Donald Trump had commended President Tinubu’s leadership and acknowledged Nigeria’s progress in strengthening security cooperation and combating terrorism. The media aide said the Minister described the commendation as a reflection of “the growing confidence in Nigeria’s efforts under President Tinubu” and urged patriotic citizens to work together instead of promoting divisive narratives abroad.
Warning against propaganda, the minister said efforts to promote hatred against a government that enjoys the goodwill of the people would not affect its wellbeing, survival or progress. “Rather it will backfire on those sponsoring such utterances to be shamed politically and morally,” Matawalle said.
He dismissed suggestions that lies and mischief could unseat the administration, saying those behind such plots are “jokers.” “The country belongs to people and they will willingly do same in 2027,” the statement quoted him.
The minister therefore called on opposition politicians to embrace constructive engagement by offering credible alternatives and supporting ongoing efforts to combat insecurity, promote peaceful coexistence and accelerate national development, instead of pursuing campaigns capable of destabilizing the country ahead of the 2027 general elections.
“Nigeria belongs to all of us, and every political actor has a responsibility to protect the country’s unity, stability and international reputation,” the minister stated.
Onuminya Innocent
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