Matawalle Denies Claim Linking Zamfara Security Success to His Influence

Minister of State for Defence, Alhaji Bello Mohammed Matawalle, has refuted a social media report alleging that he said security operations in Zamfara State “would not work without him.”

In a statement issued on Wednesday, Matawalle dismissed the claim as completely false, stressing that he never made such a remark.

He clarified that although he has previously voiced concerns about the security challenges in Zamfara, he did not grant any interview suggesting that the effectiveness of security initiatives depends on his personal involvement. According to him, the report misrepresented his views and is capable of causing unnecessary tension.

Matawalle noted that his past comments focused on the need for collaboration among all stakeholders—federal authorities, state governments, and security agencies—to tackle insecurity more effectively. He said that teamwork remains essential to achieving lasting solutions.

The minister, a former governor of Zamfara State, also emphasised that he has consistently supported stronger coordination between security institutions and state officials in the fight against banditry.

He cautioned that public communication on security matters must be handled with care to prevent misinformation or actions that might undermine national efforts.

Matawalle urged media organisations to verify information before publishing, stressing that accuracy and fairness are vital, especially when reporting on national security issues.

He reaffirmed his commitment to assisting the Federal Government in restoring peace and ensuring the safety of citizens across the country, adding that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration remains focused on enhancing security nationwide and improving conditions in affected communities.

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