FCT, Abuja – Denge Josef Onoh, former spokesman for President Bola Tinubu in the southeast geopolitical zone, has called on Bello Matawalle, Minister of State for Defence and former governor of Zamfara, to step down from his position.
According to reports by The Guardian, Onoh’s appeal aligns with growing calls for Matawalle to resign, enabling President Tinubu to reorganize Nigeria’s security framework with more effective leadership. Vanguard quoted Onoh as saying:
“Muhammed Matawalle has served Nigeria in various capacities and may still contribute in other areas of public service. However, given the current fight against terrorism, the Ministry of Defence is not the right place for him, especially after a video surfaced in which he openly defended individuals that our armed forces are mandated to combat.
“I therefore respectfully urge Dr. Matawalle to do the honourable thing and tender his resignation immediately as Minister of State for Defence, to avoid any impression of divided loyalty in Nigeria’s war against terrorism.”
Onoh further stated:
“If he is unwilling or unable to take this step, I call on His Excellency President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, as Commander-in-Chief, who has consistently shown zero tolerance for compromises in the fight against terror, to relieve Dr. Matawalle of his duties without delay.”
Meanwhile, insecurity continues to affect several states, with residents living in constant fear. Travelers avoid certain roads, farmers abandon their lands, and families adjust daily routines to minimize risks. Security agencies, while making efforts, often appear overstretched and reactive. Attackers strike swiftly, disappear into remote areas, and reappear elsewhere, leaving communities traumatized and government assurances unfulfilled.
In a related development, former minister Badaru resigned, citing health reasons. Presidential spokesperson Bayo Onanuga confirmed that President Tinubu accepted the resignation and thanked Badaru for his service to the nation.
