Lamido’s Call for Matawalle’s Removal Sparks Reaction from Northern Forum

The Northern Integrity and Security Forum (NISF) has strongly criticized recent statements made by former Foreign Affairs Minister and ex-Governor of Jigawa State, Sule Lamido, who called for the removal of Bello Mohammed Matawalle from his position as Minister of State for Defence. The forum described Lamido’s remarks as “unfortunate,” particularly in light of the ongoing security challenges in the region.

The forum’s chairman, Tijjani Auwalu, issued a statement emphasizing that Lamido’s comments come at a time when Northern Nigeria is grappling with severe security crises, including the recent abduction of the Emir of Gobir, Alhaji Isa Muhammad Bawa, and his son in the Gatawa District of Sokoto State. According to Auwalu, Lamido’s call for Matawalle’s removal is not only ill-informed but also irresponsible and alarmingly disingenuous.

The NISF underscored that while the security situation in Sokoto and other parts of Northern Nigeria is indeed concerning, these issues are part of a broader national security challenge that requires collective efforts from all levels of government. The forum argued that Lamido’s attempt to place the burden of these challenges solely on Matawalle is a gross misrepresentation of the realities, which demand a unified and coordinated response.

Auwalu questioned the motives behind Lamido’s targeted critique, pointing out that Lamido chose to single out Matawalle, a junior minister, while ignoring the senior Defence Minister, Badaru Abubakar, who hails from the same Jigawa State as Lamido. The forum suggested that this selective criticism might be part of a larger strategy to undermine the political framework supporting President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, rather than a genuine concern for national security.

The forum also highlighted the contrast between Lamido’s current focus on the plight of the Emir of Gobir and his past silence on the suffering endured by ordinary Nigerians, particularly in Zamfara State, over the years. Thousands of people have fallen victim to abductions, torture, extortion, and displacement across the country, yet Lamido has rarely spoken out on these issues, raising questions about his commitment to advocating for the Nigerian people.

The NISF linked Lamido’s recent statements to ongoing investigations into Bashir Hadejiya, who is allegedly involved in serious criminal activities, including terrorism sponsorship, gun running, and cross-border crimes. The forum suggested that the growing panic among certain political figures, including those aligned with Lamido, reflects a desperate attempt to destabilize the current administration as these investigations progress. They warned that more political figures with dubious affiliations may be exposed as the inquiry continues.

The forum posited that the criticism directed at Matawalle is part of a broader effort by a faction of northern politicians, including Lamido, to weaken President Tinubu’s influence in the North. The NISF maintained that Matawalle’s unwavering support for President Tinubu is crucial for maintaining a resilient governance structure, and these attacks are aimed at undermining that stability.

In its statement, the NISF urged President Tinubu to remain steadfast against attempts to sow division within his Northern support base. The forum stressed that the loyalty of figures like Minister Matawalle, National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu, and Director-General of the Department of State Services, Yusuf Bichi, is vital to the integrity of the current administration and the nation’s security.

The NISF concluded by reaffirming its commitment to supporting President Tinubu’s efforts to strengthen security and unity in Northern Nigeria. The forum vowed to continue promoting a united front against any attempts to weaken the collective strength of the region and the country at large.