The Minister of State for Defence, Bello
Muhammed Matawalle, has strongly criticized the irresponsible and inflammatory remarks made by former Minister of Transportation, Rotimi Amaechi, concerning President Bola Tinubu’s leadership.
During a recent conference in Abuja, Amaechi suggested that Nigerian politicians must resort to “stealing, maiming, and killing” to maintain power.
In a statement by the Ministry of Defence’s Director of Press & Public Relations, Henshaw Ogubike, Matawalle condemned Amaechi’s comments, stating they not only insult Nigerians’ intelligence but also pose a threat by potentially inciting youth and jeopardizing national peace.
Matawalle expressed that it is both irresponsible and hazardous for a former public official to make such provocative statements, especially when the government is committed to fostering national unity and security. He asserted that no responsible leader should promote violence or political unrest at this critical time.
He cautioned against misleading young Nigerians with dangerous narratives, stressing that Nigeria is governed by laws, not chaos where power is taken by force.
Matawalle warned that security agencies are vigilant, and any individuals or groups inciting violence will face strict legal repercussions. He emphasized that subversive speech aimed at disrupting national unity and promoting lawlessness will not be tolerated.
The Minister reminded Amaechi that power should be attained through democratic means, not intimidation or violence, and reaffirmed that President Tinubu’s administration is dedicated to ensuring peace, democratic values, and the security of all citizens.
He highlighted President Tinubu’s unwavering commitment to the nation’s unity and progress, noting that having experienced both military and democratic rule, he would never jeopardize the democracy he has fought to protect.
Matawalle confidently stated that the current administration has achieved significant progress in a short time and predicted that President Tinubu will achieve a resounding victory in the 2027 Presidential election.
He urged Nigerians to trust in President Tinubu’s leadership and to disregard the negative remarks from Amaechi and his associates, whom he characterized as politically irrelevant and disconnected from the current developmental landscape.
Matawalle concluded by stating that the Ministry of Defence, in partnership with relevant security agencies, will continue to monitor any activities threatening public order and ensure that anyone culpable will face serious consequences.
