Matawalle Dismisses Lawal’s Comments, Predicts Strong Northern Support for Tinubu in 2027
The Minister of State for Defence, Dr. Bello Muhammed Matawalle, has dismissed recent claims by former Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Dr. Babachir Lawal, regarding President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s 2027 presidential ambitions.
In a statement signed by Henshaw Ogubike, Director of Information and Public Relations, Matawalle described Lawal’s remarks as baseless, asserting that the North remains solidly behind President Tinubu due to the significant strides his administration has made in less than two years.
“President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, who has been in office for just 19 months, has made significant contributions to all regions of Nigeria, including the North. The people of the North will rally behind Mr. President to build upon the achievements and reforms he has initiated,” Matawalle stated.
The minister highlighted key achievements that, according to him, have earned Tinubu widespread support across Northern Nigeria.
Matawalle pointed to the administration’s success in combating insecurity, particularly in the North.
He revealed that in 2024 alone, security forces neutralized over 8,000 terrorists and bandits, arrested 11,600 criminals, and recovered more than 10,000 weapons. Additionally, about 8,000 kidnap victims were rescued, thanks to intensified efforts, including the establishment of the Multi-Agency Anti-Kidnap Fusion Cell (MAAKFC) in collaboration with the UK’s National Crime Agency.
“The North remains steadfast in its support for President Tinubu. Any insinuation to the contrary is a deliberate attempt to sow discord and undermine our national security,” Matawalle declared.
The minister also commended Tinubu’s economic reforms, particularly the creation of the Ministry of Livestock Development, which he said aims to harness the agricultural potential of the North. This initiative, Matawalle explained, is empowering millions—especially women and youths—while contributing to food security.
“The recent decline in grain prices across the country is a testament to the effectiveness of the government’s agricultural policies,” he said.
He further noted that Tinubu’s administration has prioritized infrastructure development, particularly roads and transportation networks critical to Northern Nigeria’s economic growth.
Another significant reform highlighted by the defence minister is the granting of local government autonomy. He described this as a groundbreaking step towards effective governance at the grassroots level, ensuring accountability and better service delivery to citizens.
Matawalle urged critics like Lawal to assess Tinubu’s performance based on verifiable achievements rather than political sentiments.
“It is essential for us in the North to assess the tangible benefits of the President’s reforms. The cries of dissent should not overshadow the progress being made,” he said.
The minister concluded by reaffirming the North’s unwavering support for Tinubu’s leadership, expressing confidence in the president’s vision for a more prosperous and secure Nigeria.
“Our support for President Tinubu is unwavering and unshakeable. We stand firmly behind his vision for a prosperous and secure Nigeria,” Matawalle emphasized.
