Writing By Aminu Dalhatu; Editing By Yusuf Zubairu
The Special Adviser on Political Matters to the Minister of State for Defence, Ibrahim Danmalikin Gidan Goga, has dismissed what he described as a coordinated campaign of falsehoods and politically driven attacks against the Minister of State for Defence, Dr. Bello Muhammad Matawalle.
Addressing journalists at a press briefing, Danmalikin said recent media reports questioning Matawalle’s qualifications, competence, and past security interventions were deliberately sponsored by political rivals acting out of “umbrage and resentment.”
He explained that while Matawalle preferred not to respond to the “misguided” allegations, it had become necessary to provide clarity for the public.
On allegations about educational qualifications, Danmalikin rejected claims that the Minister lacked the requirements for his appointment, noting that Matawalle passed the mandatory Senate screening and met all constitutional criteria.
He argued that effective public service is driven by competence and leadership not certificates alone.
“From his early career as a classroom teacher to his current role as Minister, Matawalle has consistently demonstrated capability and experience,” he said.
He further clarified that no law requires the Defence Minister to be a military officer, stressing that civilian oversight of the armed forces is constitutional and vital for democratic governance.
He noted that Nigeria has had several effective civilian defence ministers.
Responding to accusations that Matawalle mishandled security challenges as Zamfara governor, the adviser said critics were distorting the facts.
He listed several measures introduced by the former governor to combat banditry, including the suspension of telecommunications services, closure of forests used as criminal hideouts, restriction of truck movements suspected of aiding bandits, shutdown of filling stations near borders, and statewide emergency security directives later adopted by Kaduna, Katsina, Kebbi, Niger, and Sokoto States.
Danmalikin said these measures yielded results before the insurgency escalated due to factors beyond the state government’s control.
He added that Matawalle facilitated several high-profile rescue operations both as governor and minister, including the recent rescue of abducted students in Kebbi State, as well as the release of the Kankara, Jangebe, and other abducted schoolchildren in Zamfara.
“Governance is not about holding the highest certificate; it is about tact, intelligence, and the ability to navigate complex challenges. This is what Matawalle brings to the table,” he stated.
‘Political Plot From Zamfara’
Danmalikin accused the Zamfara State Government of orchestrating the smear campaign to weaken Matawalle’s political relevance ahead of 2027, saying his achievements were creating fear among opponents.
“For 12 years in the National Assembly, no such allegation was raised. Only now, after two years of success as Minister, are detractors sponsoring lies,” he said.
He also welcomed the appointment of General Christopher Musa (Rtd) as Minister of Defence, expressing confidence that his partnership with Matawalle would strengthen efforts to address national security challenges.
Call for National Responsibility
Danmalikin urged Nigerians to avoid politicizing insecurity, warning that misinformation harms national unity and undermines the fight against criminality.
“Insecurity should never be politicized. What the nation needs now is cooperation, not falsehoods,” he said.
