The All Progressives Congress (APC) Akida Forum recently staged a protest at the Abuja headquarters of the Department of State Services (DSS), demanding accountability for insecurity in Zamfara State and calling for an investigation into the Minister of State for Defence, Dr. Bello Mohammed Matawalle. Led by Musa Mahmoud, the demonstration was reportedly aimed at addressing ongoing violence in Zamfara, yet the event has sparked questions about political motivations behind these accusations.
The protest, featuring primarily women and youths reportedly brought in from Abuja, followed allegations that Matawalle has ties to banditry in Zamfara. However, the APC Akida Forum’s leader, Tijjani Ramallan, accused Zamfara’s current governor, Dauda Lawal, of fueling these claims as part of a political campaign against Matawalle. Ramallan suggested that Lawal’s allegations are aimed at deflecting responsibility for the state’s security crisis.
Critics argue that the focus on Matawalle is misplaced, as he no longer serves as the state’s chief executive. Lawal, who assumed office as Zamfara’s governor, now holds the role of chief security officer of the state and is thus responsible for managing security efforts. Observers have pointed out that instead of engaging in a blame game, Lawal should prioritize implementing effective security measures for Zamfara’s citizens.
The animosity toward Matawalle is seen by some as rooted in his past political achievements, particularly his role as the Director General of Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s campaign in the Northwest. His success in this capacity has reportedly created friction among political opponents, including Mahmoud and Ramallan, who view Matawalle’s influence as a threat.
Investigations by the office of the National Security Adviser reportedly found no evidence to support claims of Matawalle’s involvement with bandit groups. Citing these findings, President Tinubu retained Matawalle in his ministerial role, where he is reportedly addressing security matters in the Northwest professionally. Additionally, a Kano High Court recently issued an order restraining Governor Lawal and others from continuing their media campaigns against Matawalle, underscoring concerns over the potential harm caused by these allegations.
Despite the court’s intervention, Lawal has continued to publicly associate Matawalle with banditry and corruption, claims that remain unsubstantiated. Observers believe these tactics reflect Lawal’s attempts to solidify his own political position by diminishing Matawalle’s reputation. However, these actions have raised concerns about the integrity of political discourse in Zamfara and the consequences of potentially misleading narratives.
The media advisor, Nasiru Aliyu, added that Matawalle’s recent operational visit to Sokoto resulted in the elimination of Halilu Sububu, a prominent bandit leader in Zamfara. Aliyu stated that Sububu’s death and the alleged loss of critical support for bandit groups may have spurred further attempts to discredit Matawalle.
Ultimately, the APC Akida Forum and other stakeholders argue that responsibility for security in Zamfara now lies with Governor Lawal. Calls are mounting for him to take tangible action in combating banditry and protecting the welfare of Zamfara’s residents, rather than casting blame on former officials. The High Court’s recent ruling serves as a reminder of the importance of due process and accountability in addressing political conflicts and ensuring responsible governance for the people of Zamfara.
