The Arewa Youths Consultative Forum and the Northern Awareness Network have condemned a plot to tarnish the image of Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle, calling it a threat to Nigeria’s stability.
In separate statements, the groups raised concerns over the integrity of political leadership in Nigeria’s northern region, revealing a plot targeting prominent figures, including Matawalle.
“The orchestrations, revealed by one of the organizers of the August 1 protests, ‘particularly the $50,000 scheme focused on Minister Matawalle, cast a long shadow over the political landscape, engendering suspicions about the motives behind such malign activities,'” said AYCF President General, Yerima Shettima, and NAN Chairman, Salifu Suleiman.
The groups called for an inquiry into the political dynamics underlying these attacks, aimed at undermining northern leaders’ influence, which could destabilize the political landscape.
AYCF said, “The implications of such blackmail campaigns possess the potential to disrupt governance and compromise the effectiveness of leadership, particularly at a time when national unity and stability are paramount.
“The $50,000 plot against Minister Matawalle serves as a poignant reminder of the lengths to which President Tinubu’s adversaries go to, in their desperation to strip him of the influence of such powerful political figures in the North.”
The groups cautioned that unrestrained unrest could devolve into pervasive violence, undermining governance and security.
NAN said, “Such scenarios evoke an atmosphere of uncertainty and fear, undermining the very tenets of governance and security.
“The audacity of offering $50,000 to compromise the credibility of a high-ranking Minister reflects the serious intent of these destabilizing forces. This suggests a coordinated effort, fueled by international actors, to undermine governance and national cohesion in Nigeria.”
NAN emphasized the need for the government to engage in comprehensive consultations with genuine Northern groups and critical stakeholders to strengthen Nigeria’s security and stability ahead of the 2027 elections.
NAN added, “The principles underpinning international laws, such as the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights affirm that while peaceful protest is a vestige of democracy, it does not provide carte blanche for inciting violence or civil disobedience. Reinforcing the rule of law, while respecting citizens’ rights, is essential in preserving the social contract.”
