In a recent protest outside the Department of State Security (DSS) headquarters in Abuja, a group of demonstrators, reportedly mobilized by APC Akida leader Tijjani Ramallan, has accused Dr. Bello Muhammad Matawalle, the Honourable Minister of State for Defence, of collusion with criminals. According to sources, buses provided by the Zamfara State government transported the protesters, suggesting a coordinated effort to tarnish the minister’s reputation.
Media analyst Godiya Hamza has condemned the protest, calling it an “orchestrated campaign of calumny” and accusing Ramallan and the Zamfara State government of deliberately trying to undermine Matawalle. Hamza highlighted that Ramallan has been critical of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and has displayed envy toward Matawalle’s loyalty to the President. These actions, Hamza stated, stem from Ramallan’s dissatisfaction with Matawalle’s influence within the APC.
Accusations have also emerged against Ramallan for allegedly financing banditry, with claims that he has ties to criminal elements in Zamfara. Ramallan’s alignment with Governor Dauda Lawal in the smear campaign reportedly follows a court ruling that had initially barred the Zamfara government from continuing its attacks on Matawalle. Now, through the APC Akida group, the state government appears to be supporting Ramallan’s actions to continue their criticism.
Observers suggest that instead of engaging in “pull-him-down” tactics, Zamfara’s leaders should focus on effective governance. Hamza emphasized that the ongoing defamation campaign serves no productive purpose and only diverts attention and resources from issues that truly matter to the people of Zamfara.
As public attention remains on these developments, many citizens and political analysts are calling for restraint and urging the DSS to take action against those responsible for inciting discord in the name of political rivalry.
