The Arewa Joint Initiative for Peace (AJIP) said it stands resolutely against the ongoing, unfounded calls for the removal of Bello Matawalle from his esteemed position as Minister of Defence.
The group viewed such plan as a misguided attempts, allegedly bankrolled by Governor Dauda Lawal of Zamfara State, are not only a disservice to the progress we have made in the fight against insecurity but also a blatant attempt to undermine the integrity of our national leadership and the unity of the North.
A statement issued by the group and signed by the.direvtor general Musa Danbaki, said it is imperative to recognize that the recent political maneuvers by Governor Lawal are rooted in desperation.
"As a leader who has consistently aligned himself with bandit leaders, Lawal's efforts to discredit Minister Matawalle stem from a fear of exposure. Matawalle has been a stalwart advocate for peace and security in our region, tirelessly working to dismantle the networks of violence that have plagued our communities.
"His commitment to transparency and accountability threatens the very foundations of Lawal’s alliances, compelling the Governor to seek distractions through baseless allegations against a man who has dedicated his life to the service of our nation".
The AJIP said it firmly believe that these calls for Matawalle's removal are not merely personal attacks; they are part of a broader political strategy to destabilize the support structure for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's 2027 re-election campaign.
By targeting Matawalle, who has emerged as a key pillar of support for the President in the North, detractors aim to weaken the administration's efforts to foster stability and growth in the region. We must not allow such divisive tactics to succeed, the group stated.
According to the group, Minister Matawalle has demonstrated unwavering dedication to his role, implementing policies that have significantly improved the security landscape in Nigeria, adding that under his stewardship, we have witnessed a concerted effort to engage communities, empower local leaders, and create sustainable pathways to peace.
"His initiatives have not only aimed to combat banditry but also to address the socio-economic factors that fuel unrest. It is this comprehensive approach that has earned him the respect and admiration of many, both within and outside the region.
"As we reflect on the current political climate, it is crucial to reaffirm our solidarity with President Tinubu and the administration’s vision for a secure and prosperous Nigeria. The Arewa Joint Initiative for Peace stands united in our belief that a cohesive and supportive leadership is essential for navigating the challenges we face. We recognize that the path to peace is fraught with obstacles, but it is only through unity and collaboration that we can overcome them.
"In light of these circumstances, we call upon all stakeholders to reject the divisive rhetoric being propagated by those who seek to undermine our collective progress. It is vital that we focus on fostering dialogue, supporting our leaders, and working together to build a future that is free from the shadows of violence and insecurity".
The strength of our region lies in our ability to unite against common threats, and we must not allow personal vendettas to distract us from the greater good, the statement added.
"The Arewa Joint Initiative for Peace extends our unwavering support to Minister Bello Matawalle and commends him for his tireless efforts to bring about lasting change. We urge the public to remain vigilant against misinformation and to stand firm in their support for leaders who prioritize the welfare of our communities over personal ambitions. Together, we can forge a path toward a more secure and prosperous future for all Nigerians.
"We call on the citizens of Zamfara State and the broader Northern region to rally behind Minister Matawalle and reject the baseless narratives being spun by those with ulterior motives. Let us stand together in solidarity with President Tinubu, reaffirming our commitment to peace, security, and unity in the face of adversity".
ENDS.
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