By Harriet Tornguvan -Abuja
The Minister of State for Defence, Dr. Bello Mohammed Matawalle, has strongly condemned what he described as reckless and inflammatory remarks made by former Minister of Transportation, Rotimi Amaechi, regarding the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
In a statement issued by the Director of Press and Public Relations Ministry of Defence Henshaw Ogubike, Matawalle criticized Amaechi’s recent comments at a conference in Abuja, where he allegedly suggested that politicians must resort to unethical and violent means to retain power.
The minister described the statement as not only irresponsible but also a dangerous attempt to mislead young Nigerians and destabilize national security.
Dr. Matawalle emphasized that such remarks from a former public officeholder were unacceptable, particularly at a time when the government is working to strengthen national unity and security.
He warned against any attempts to radicalize Nigerian youths with messages of violence and lawlessness, reaffirming that Nigeria operates under the rule of law, not anarchy.
“The security agencies are on high alert. Anyone found inciting violence or attempting to destabilize the country will face the full force of the law,” Matawalle declared. He further stressed that the government would not tolerate any rhetoric that threatens national stability.
The minister reminded Amaechi that political power is earned through democratic processes, not through intimidation or violence. He reaffirmed President Tinubu’s commitment to upholding peace, democratic principles, and the security of all Nigerians.
Highlighting the administration’s achievements within a short period, Matawalle expressed confidence in President Tinubu’s leadership, predicting a decisive victory in the 2027 presidential election. He urged Nigerians to trust in the government’s vision and ignore what he termed as the distractions from politically irrelevant figures.
“Amaechi and those attempting to mislead the youth into chaos should reconsider their actions. This administration will not stand idly by while individuals attempt to disrupt national peace and stability,” he stated.
The Ministry of Defence, in collaboration with security agencies, reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding public peace and ensuring that those found culpable of inciting violence face appropriate legal consequences.
