Ex-Zamfara Commissioners urge Tinubu to retain Matawalle as Minister of State, Defence

Former Zamfara Commissioners’ Forum under the administration of Gov. Bello Matawalle has called on President Bola Tinubu to retain him as the Minister of State for Defence.

The former Zamfara Commissioner of Information, Sulaiman Tunau, made the call at a news briefing in Gusau on Monday.

Our correspondent reports that the forum was reacting to the recent calls by some politicians in the state to Tinubu to remove Matawalle from the Ministerial position.

Tunau described the calls as ”unfortunate and clear envy against Matawalle.

“Matawalle deserves commendation for his outstanding contributions, therefore, he should be encouraged to continue his national service.
“I think Matawalle’s track record, both in state and national assignments, speaks for itself.”

He said that the forum has condemned the actions of some selfish politicians on media outlets as they were sponsored to tarnish the image of Matawalle.

According to him, Matawalle, as a former member, House of Representatives and Chairman of the House Committee on Security and Intelligence, gave him a deep understanding of national security dynamics and making him highly suited for his current role.

“During his tenure as Zamfara Governor (2019-2023), he adopted both kinetic and non-kinetic strategies to reduce insecurity, improving peace and stability in the state beyond what the citizens experience today under Gov. Dauda Lawal.

“Recently, Matawalle led coordinated and successful release and reunion of the 24 abducted students of Girls Comprehensive Secondary School, Maga, Kebbi, with their families, which was highly commendable.

Matawalle served as the North-West Coordinator for the Tinubu-Shettima Presidential Campaign in 2023, delivered overwhelming electoral success across the region,” he explained.

Tunau further noted that Matawalle has remained a consistent supporter of Tinubu’s policies and programmes and is widely acknowledged for his loyalty and commitment to national stability.

“In the interest of national security and continuity, we respectfully call on Mr President to retain Matawalle in his position as Minister of State for Defence.

“Matawalle’s continued service will further strengthen national security structures, particularly as the nation heads toward the 2027 General Elections,” he added.