The Minister of State for Defence, Dr. Bello Muhammed Matawalle, has strongly criticised former Minister of Transportation, Rotimi Amaechi, over what he described as reckless and inciting remarks about President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s leadership.
Amaechi, speaking at a recent conference in Abuja, allegedly declared that Nigerian politicians must “steal, maim, and kill” to remain in power. Dr. Matawalle denounced the statement as not only insulting to Nigerians but also a dangerous attempt to radicalise the youth and destabilise national security.
Reacting to Amaechi’s comments, Matawalle stated, “It is both reckless and dangerous for a former public office holder to make such inflammatory remarks. At a time when the government is working tirelessly to consolidate national unity and security, no responsible leader should fan the flames of violence and political unrest.”
The minister warned against any effort to mislead young Nigerians with a distorted narrative of violence and anarchy, stressing that “Nigeria is a sovereign nation governed by laws, not a jungle where power is seized through brute force.”
He further assured that security agencies remain vigilant and prepared to act against any attempts to incite violence. “Let me make it clear: security agencies are on high alert. Any individual or group found inciting violence or attempting to destabilise this nation will face the full force of the law,” he declared.
A statement signed by Henshaw Ogubike, Director of Press and Public Relations at the Ministry of Defence, reaffirmed the government’s stance, warning that subversive rhetoric aimed at undermining national unity or inciting lawlessness will not be tolerated.
Matawalle also reminded Amaechi that power in a democracy is earned through legitimate means, not through intimidation or violence. He reiterated that President Tinubu’s administration remains committed to upholding peace, democratic values, and national security.
“President Tinubu’s commitment to the unity and progress of our great nation is unwavering. Having experienced both military rule and democratic governance, he would never undermine the very democracy he has fought to uphold,” he stated.
Highlighting the administration’s progress within a short period, Matawalle expressed confidence that President Tinubu will secure a decisive victory in the 2027 presidential election.
He urged Nigerians to trust Tinubu’s leadership and ignore Amaechi’s remarks, describing the former minister and his associates as “politically irrelevant and out of touch with the realities of national development.”
“Amaechi and others who believe they can manipulate our youth into chaos should rethink their actions. This government will not stand idly by while individuals attempt to disrupt the peace and stability of Nigeria,” he added.
Matawalle concluded by reaffirming that the Ministry of Defence, in collaboration with security agencies, will continue monitoring activities aimed at disrupting public peace and will ensure that anyone found culpable faces severe consequences.