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Tag: matawalle

  • Finally, Appeal Court stops Matawalle from carting away 40 Zamfara govt vehicles

    Finally, Appeal Court stops Matawalle from carting away 40 Zamfara govt vehicles

    The Court of Appeal in Sokoto has upheld the Federal High Court’s decision dismissing the appeal filed by former governor Bello Matawalle challenging the decision that the official vehicles he carted away after he was defeated at the 2023 General Elections were his personal property.

    Recall that in June 2023, based on a complaint by the Zamfara State Government, the Zamfara Police raided the residence of the former Governor Matawalle, seizing more than 40 official vehicles he and his cabinet carted away before handing over power on May 29, 2023.

    A statement by the Spokesperson of the Zamfara State Governor, Sulaiman Bala Idris, said that a three-member panel of the Appeal Court, in a unanimous decision by Hon. Justice A.M Talba on 08 August 2025, dismissed Bello Matawalle’s appeal.

    According to him, the Court of Appeal in Appeal No. CS//S/2024 – Bello Muhammed Matawalle vs Nigeria Police & Others, held that the decision of the Federal High Court Sokoto division on the right of the Police to investigate allegations of commission of crime was correct.

    It further held that Matawalle failed to adduce credible evidence to support his claim of ownership of the 40 vehicles recovered from his residence, as such lacks justification to allege that his fundamental right to own property has been breached.

    The statement reads: “In June 2023, the Zamfara State Government gave former governor Bello Matawalle and his deputy five working days to return all vehicles stolen.

    “However, all attempts to recover these vehicles were unsuccessful, prompting the Zamfara State Government to seek a court order. After the order was issued, police recovered over 40 vehicles.

    “After the vehicles were recovered, Bello Matawalle approached the Federal High Court in Gusau and the court granted an order that the cars be returned to him. Additionally, he filed a separate suit at the same court, seeking to enforce his fundamental right to own property, including the vehicles in question.

    “The Zamfara State Government requested the transfer of the case to the Sokoto division of the Federal High Court.

    “The Federal High Court of Nigeria, Sokoto Judicial Division, dismissed the matter in December 2023 and refused to grant any of the reliefs sought by Bello Matawalle. As a result, the vehicles are still considered the property of the Zamfara State Government.

    Not satisfied with the Federal High Court’s judgment, Bello Matawalle approached the Appeal Court.

    “⁠The Appeal Court last Friday upheld the entirety of the judgment of the Federal High Court, Sokoto, affirming that the police have the power to investigate allegations of the commission of a crime upon receipt of a complaint,

    “It added that the entire procedure followed by the State Government in the retrieval of the stolen vehicles is in line with the law, as such, does not offend the fundamental right of Bello Matawalle, as alleged, and thus cannot shield him from investigation and prosecution.

  • Matawalle faults ex-SGF over Tinubu’s 2027 presidential ambitions

    Matawalle faults ex-SGF over Tinubu’s 2027 presidential ambitions

    The Minister of State for Defence, Dr Bello Matawalle, has faulted the recent comments by Dr Babachir Lawal, a former Secretary to the Government of the Federation,regarding the 2027 Presidential ambitions of President Bola Tinubu

    This is contained in a statement issued by the Director of Information and Public Relations of the Ministry of Defence, Mr Henshaw Ogubike on Monday in Abuja.

    Matawalle emphasised that President Tinubu has made commendable strides in governance and that Lawal and his associates will be surprised by the resounding support the President will receive from the North.

    He said that the president had made impactful reforms in several key areas like security, economy, infrastructure and governance.

    The minister said the security forces neutralised over 8,000 terrorists and bandits, apprehended 11,600 criminals, and recovered more than 10,000 weapons in 2024.

    According to him, this robust action has significantly improved security across the North.

    He added that the successful rescue of approximately 8,000 kidnap victims underscored the government’s commitment to ensuring the safety of all citizens.

    “The establishment of the Multi-Agency Anti-Kidnap Fusion Cell (MAAKFC) in December 2024, in collaboration with the UK’s National Crime Agency, has enhanced strategic coordination in the fight against kidnapping.

    “Looking at the administration from the economic point of view, the creation of the Ministry of Livestock Development aims to tap into the agricultural potential of the North, promoting economic growth and empowering millions, particularly women and youths in the North.

    “This initiative is expected to transform rural communities and contribute to food Security.

    “The recent decline in grain prices across the country is a testament to the effectiveness of the government’s agricultural policies,” he said.

    Matawalle added that Tinubu’s administration had prioritised infrastructure projects that vital for economic growth in the North, including road construction and improvement of transportation networks.

    He said that the local government autonomy had empowered local administrations to function effectively, ensuring accountability and better governance at the grassroots.

    “President Tinubu, who has been in office for just 19 months, has made significant contributions in all regions of Nigeria, including the North.

    “The people of the North will rally behind Mr President to build upon the achievements and reforms he has initiated.”

    “The North remains steadfast in its support for President Tinubu. Any insinuation to the contrary is a deliberate attempt to sow discord and undermine our national security,” he said.

    Matawalle urged critics to evaluate Tinubu’s scorecard objectively rather than dismissing his efforts, saying it was essential for them to assess the tangible benefits of the president’s reforms.

    “We must unite in our support for Mr President as he continues to work towards a prosperous and secure Nigeria.

    “Our support for President Tinubu is unwavering and unshakeable. We stand firmly behind his vision for a prosperous and secure Nigeria,” he added.

  • CDS visa snub: it is a serious affront to our national dignity – Matawalle reacts

    CDS visa snub: it is a serious affront to our national dignity – Matawalle reacts

    Nigeria is commitment to maintaining its dignity and respect in the international arena.

    The Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle, made this known while reacting to the visa denial of the Chief of Defence Staff, Gen. Christopher Musa by Canada.

    Matawalle in a statement by issued by Sunday Iyogun for the Director Information and Public Relations, Ministry of Defence in Abuja, urged all stakeholders to work collectively to avoid reoccurrence of such incidents.

    He said unfortunate event occurred while Musa and members of his delegation were to attend a significant function honoring Nigerian veterans in Canada.

    Matawalle expressed profound disappointment regarding the treatment of the Nigerian delegation.

    “This incident is not merely a bureaucratic oversight; it is a serious affront to our national dignity and integrity,” he said.

    The minister called for an immediate and thorough investigation into the reasons behind the visa denial, asserting that Nigeria must respond decisively to uphold its reputation as a key player in global affairs.

    According to him, Nigeria must not remain passive in the face of such disrespect.

    ”It is imperative that the Nigerian government takes a firm diplomatic stance.

    “If no satisfactory explanation is provided, we must be prepared to respond appropriately and assertively,” he added.

    According to him, while the specific reasons for the visa refusals remain unclear, this incident underscores the persistent bureaucratic and political challenges that Nigerian officials encounter in international engagements.

  • What military need to combat banditry, criminality – Matawalle

    What military need to combat banditry, criminality – Matawalle

    The Minister of State for Defence, Dr Bello Matawalle, has urged for increased collaboration and funding for the defence sector to effectively combat banditry and other forms of criminality across the nation.

    Matawalle made the appeal during the presentation of the 2025 Budget Proposal for the Ministry of Defence to the Senate and House of Representatives Committees on Defence in Abuja.

    This is contained in a statement by Daberechi Asonye, for the Director of Information and Public Relations, Ministry of Defence, on Thursday in Abuja.

    In his remarks, the minister underscored the importance of robust collaboration with lawmakers, adding that both the House and Senate Committees had shown unwavering commitment and cooperative efforts.

    He noted that their steadfast support had been instrumental in the ministry’s achievements to date.

    He described the current budget as insufficient given the modern security challenges faced by the nation.

    “With the right equipment, we can significantly resolve the battle against banditry.

    “The Ministry of Defence is tasked with providing essential equipment to various regions, a goal that remains unfulfilled due to budget constraints.

    “In 2024, we were only able to procure some Armoured Personnel Carriers (APCs). We need more APCs to tackle insecurity swiftly”, he said.

    Matawalle expressed confidence that the legislative bodies would consider increasing the budget allocation for the ministry.

    This, according to him, would enable the provision of necessary equipment to areas experiencing fresh attacks and facilitating a decisive action against banditry.

    He extended his gratitude to the leadership of the committees for their continued support, emphasizing that their cooperation has significantly contributed to the ministry’s progress.

    In response, the leadership of the committees assured Matawalle of sustained collaboration to ensure the successful realisation of the president’s Renewed Hope Agenda on security.

    The minister was accompanied by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Amb. Gabriel Aduda, and Directors of the ministry.

  • Alleged treason: Court orders unconditional release of ex-Matawalle’s aide, says detention unlawful

    Alleged treason: Court orders unconditional release of ex-Matawalle’s aide, says detention unlawful

    A Federal High Court in Abuja on Tuesday, ordered the release of Bashir Hadejia, an aide to the Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle, while he was Governor of Zamfara, unconditionally.

    Justice Emeka Nwite, in a judgment, described Hadejia’s arrest and subsequent detention since Aug. 12, 2024, without being charged to court, as unlawful and in breach of his fundamental human rights as enshrined in the constitution.

    Justice Nwite, who made an order of perpetual injunction restraining the Inspector-General (I-G) of Police, his agents or servants, from any unlawful arrest and detention of Hadejia, awarded N10 million as general and exemplary damages against the I-G.

    The judge declared the invasion of the applicant’s residence by the agents of the police on Aug. 12, 2024, as illegal, unconstitutional, null and void.

    He held that the act was a flagrant violation of Hadejia’s fundamental rights as guaranteed under Sections 34, 35, 36 (5), 37 and 41 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended).

    NAN reports that Hadejia was allegedly arrested on Aug. 12, 2024 at his residence in Abuja over allegations bordering on “treason and subversion against the state.”

    However, in the originating motion marked: FHC/ABJ/CS/1235/2024, filed by Mahmud Magaji, SAN, on Hadejia’s behalf, the lawyer sued the Inspector-General (I-G) of Police  and Bello Matawalle (Minister of State for Defence) as 1st and 2nd respondents.

    Also joined in the suit dated and filed on Aug. 22, 2024, were State Security Service (SSS); Chief of Naval Staff; Chief of Defence Intelligence, Defence Intelligence Agency (DIA); and Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) as 3rd to 6th respondents respectively.

    The senior lawyer sought nine reliefs including “a declaration that the abduction, harassment, intimidation, unlawful arrest and detention of the applicant (BASHIR HADEJIA) by the agents of the respondents on 12th of August, 2024, based on the political disagreement between the applicant and the 2nd respondent (Matawalle) is illegal, unconstitutional, null and void.”

    He sought an order enforcing Hadejia’s fundamental rights to liberty by directing his unconditional release pending the determination of any allegations that may be raised against him by the respondents.

    He equally sought an order awarding the sum of N500 million as general and exemplary damages against the respondents.

    In the affidavit deposed to by Abubakar Hadejia, a younger brother of the detainee, he averred that the applicant is a businessman and former Special Adviser on Special Duties to Matawalle while he was governor of Zamfara.

    According to him, the applicant is also a Technical Adviser to the incumbent governor of Zamfara State.

    He alleged that the residence was invaded without search warrant and the agents of the I-G who came for the search did not enter any inventory with respect to what was allegedly found in the house.

    Abubakar said when they visited the Intelligence Respond Team, Force Intelligence Department (IRT-FID) on Aug. 16, 2024, they were told that though Hadejia was in their custody, he was not a subject of any investigation.

    He said, through their lawyer, they applied for his administrative bail but was denied.

    “I know as a fact that: there exists a political disagreement between the applicant and 2nd respondent (Matawalle) who was the Governor of Zamfara State between 2019 and 2023,” he alleged.

    He said within the period, Matawalle appointed Hadejia as Special Adviser on Special Duties but that after he lost the bid to return to the seat of the governor in 2023, Matawalle became angry with his elder brother.

    He said the feud between them worsened when Hadejia was appointed as Technical Adviser by the incumbent Governor of Zamfara, Dauda Lawal.

    He alleged that Hadejia’s entire detention was a political witch-hunt orchestrated by Matawalle in connivance with the 1st, 3rd, 4th, 5th and 6th respondents to tarnish his image and lower his estimation in the eyes of his political and business associates.

    However, in separate counter affidavits  Matawalle, the SSS, Chief of Naval Staff, DIA and CDS, denied the allegations describing it as baseless.

    They urged the court to dismissed the suit as Hadejia had not placed sufficient evidence before the court to prove his allegations.

    Although the 2nd to 6th respondents filed counter affidavits, the 1st respondent (I-G) did not.

    Delivering the judgment, Justice Omotosho agreed with the arguement of Matawalle that Hadejia had failed to prove all the allegations against him.

    He held that sufficient and credible facts must be placed before the court for the applicant to prove his case and where the applicant failed, the court would refused the application.

    According to him, where the applicant placed sufficient evidence before the court, it is there the burden of proof will shift on the respondents.

    The judge noted that Hadejia alleged that the 1st, 3rd, 4th, 5th and 6th respondents were acting on the instructions of the 2nd respondent (Matawalle).

    Justice Nwite, however, held that there was absolutely no concrete evidence to show that Matawalle was responsible for Hadejia’s predicament and that it was as a result of political disagreement.

    Besides, the judge said the applicant failed to show the court that he was ever kept in the custody of the SSS.

    “The applicant has woefully failed to prove that his right was denied,” he said.

    He said a court can not decide issues on speculation but on facts.

    “Courts of law are courts of facts and law and finding should be based on credible evidence,” he said.

    He dismissed all the allegations against the 2nd, 3rd, 4th, 5th and 6th respondents.

    However, Justice Nwite observed that Hadejia’s affidavit evidence against the I-G (1st respondent) were unchallenged.

    He said it is not in dispute that no court has the power to stop the power of security agencies in discharging their power to investigate or prosecute, but where the averments made by an applicant were uncontroverted, they are deemed to be true.

    “It is worthy of note that the 1st respondent did not filed any process despite being served with the hearing notices and all the court documents,” he said.

    The judge, who declared that the continued detention of Hadejia was unlawful, awarded a N10 million fine against the I-G, among other orders.

  • Matawalle condemns protest statement credited to ex-minister, Amaechi

    Matawalle condemns protest statement credited to ex-minister, Amaechi

    The Minister of State for Defence, Dr Bello Matawalle, has condemned the alleged statement credited to former Minister of Transport Rotimi Amaechi calling for protest from Nigerians.

    This is contained in a statement on Saturday in Abuja, by Mr Henshaw Ogubike, Director, Information and Public Relations, Ministry of Defence.

    Amaechi is alleged to have called on Nigerian youths to rise up in protest against government policies that were anti people.

    Reacting Matawalle condemned Amaechi’s call in the strongest of terms.

    He cautioned the former minister to desist from inflammatory remarks that threaten the peace and stability of the nation.

    He also accused the former minister of inciting violence and unrest among the Nigerian populace.

    Matawalle also expressed deep concern over the dangers posed by such rhetoric.

    “It is both reckless and irresponsible for a former public servant of Amaechi’s standing to incite Nigerians against their own government.

    “At a time when President Bola Tinubu is working tirelessly to address the challenges facing the nation through various reforms that are yielding results.

    “It is absurd, preposterous and shameful for anyone to exploit the genuine situation of our citizens for selfish political gain,” he said.

    The Minister further reiterated Tinubu’s commitment to safeguarding the peace and security of every Nigerian, warning that any attempts to destabilise the country through incitement will not be tolerated.

    “We will not allow anyone to fuel violence or manipulate the prevailing situation of our people.

    Matawalle also cautioned the former minister not to cast aspersions on government genuine intentions for the people.

    “It is expected that Amaechi joins hands with the government to move the country forward, rather than chose to stay aside with myopic assertions,” he added.

  • Support Matawalle, CDS Musa on war against banditry-Popular Cleric tells Nigerians

    Support Matawalle, CDS Musa on war against banditry-Popular Cleric tells Nigerians

    A renowned cleric, Sheikh Abdurrahman Azzamfari, has called for prayers and support for the Minister of State for Defence, Dr. Bello Muhammed Matawalle, and the Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher G. Musa, for their tireless efforts in combating banditry in the northern region.

    This was, even as, the Cleric has exposed those he described as “enemies of the people”, who do not want the insurgencies to end, but cashing on it for political gains.

    Azzamfari, who spoke in Hausa language at a public lecture delivered at the weekend, x-ray the growing security challenges in Zamfara State, highlighting the dangerous forces working behind the scenes to perpetuate violence and unrest in the state, while commending the ongoing efforts of key government figures to restore peace.

    According to the cleric, selfish interests and ignorance have been key drivers of the insecurity plaguing Zamfara. In his words, “This problem is like the case of two elephants fighting; who will suffer the most? The grass.”

    Sheikh Azzamfari made it clear that the people of Zamfara are the ultimate victims of this ongoing conflict, which, he asserts, is being driven by powerful individuals who benefit from the continued violence.

    “The insecurity in the north is a huge problem and there are many factors involved – like personal interest, politics, illiteracy; and only almighty God can put an end to it.

    “Some people don’t want to see the end of insecurity because if it ends, some people’s political stake has come to an end; and they don’t want that because they want to use it for campaign in 2027 elections.

    “And for some people, if insecurity stops they loose their source of income, while some people don’t want it stopped because the person that stops it will get huge credit and they can’t stand to see that.

    “For these kind of people, they would rather see everyone suffer than lose their interest, and these people are big people with a lot of power, the more they clash, the more the poor masses suffer”, the Cleric asserted.

    The cleric praised the Honourable Minister of State for Defence, Dr. Matawalle, and the Chief of Defence Staff, General Musa, for fighting the insurgencies, pointing out that, “these leaders have become targets of those who do not want to see peace return to the state”.

    He said, “these people do not want the good efforts that Matawalle is making to end this incessant violence to come to fruition. They cannot afford to allow Matawalle or Christopher Musa to take the credit for ending this menace.

    “Some people think if Matawalle and Christopher Musa succeed, they will get a huge credit and they don’t want that, we pray to God to resolve this issue and help them in their endeavor”.

    In his closing remarks, he urged all believing Muslims to include Dr. Matawalle and General Musa in their prayers, imploring divine intervention to help these leaders overcome the evil forces plotting against them.

    His call for solidarity emphasized the need for unity in supporting genuine efforts aimed at ending the banditry in Zamfara, while condemning those who are determined to undermine such initiatives for their own selfish gain.

  • Stop playing blame game against Matawalle – Ex-Zamfara commissioner tells Lawal

    Stop playing blame game against Matawalle – Ex-Zamfara commissioner tells Lawal

    Alhaji Ibrahim Danmalikin-Gidangoga, a former Zamfara Commissioner for Information, has called on Gov. Dauda Lawal to stop playing the blame game against the Minister of State for Defence, Alhaji Bello Matawalle.

    Danmalikin-Gidangoda, therefore, urged the Governor to tackle the security challenges in the state.

    In a statement he issued in Gusau on Friday, the former commissioner condemned the recent attacks on Matawalle by Lawal.

    He said that such comments in the media by Lawal against his predecessor, Matawalle, have no value to the development of the state.

    Danmalikin-Gidangoga said Lawal must collaborate with Matawalle to tackle the security challenges facing the state.

    “The two leaders should collaborate to ensure the success of  the ongoing anti-banditry operations in the state by the Federal Government.

    “I think Gov. Lawal should stop the blame game on unnecessary issues, let him focus on the development of the state.

    “The Federal Government is making  great efforts as regards to the fight against insecurity.

    “The state government must also use its machinery like  the Community Protection Guard (CPG) judiciously towards ensuring peace and stability in the state,”he explained.

    According to him, Matawalle should be commended for the recent achievements recorded in the anti-banditry fight not only in Zamfara but in the entire North-West region.

    Danmalikin-Gidangoga said, “I am calling on Gov. Dauda Lawal to set politics aside and collaborate with Matawalle and the security agencies to restore peace and stability in the state.

    “I think the security issue is a collaborative responsibility, therefore, it is beyond personal interest,” he added.

    The former commissioner further said that the Federal Government has made notable strides in tackling insecurity, especially through its targeted efforts to combat banditry in Zamfara and the North-West.

    He said that since the inauguration of the ongoing military operations in the region by Matawalle, bandits’ activities had drastically reduced.

    Danmalikin-Gidangoga said, “The ongoing operations neutralised key bandit leaders in the North- West including the wanted Halilu Sububu.

    “I enjoin our gallant troops to sustain their efforts in restoring peace and stability in the country.

    “I think Matawalle is doing the needful, the security agencies are making great success in tackling banditry activities not only in Zamfara but in the whole North-West.

    “Gov. Lawal should focus on interest of the state, the major needs of Zamfara citizens is security, peace and stability.”

    He called on Lawal to stop shifting unnecessary blame against Matawalle.

    “Matawalle as the Minister of State for Defence is doing the needful, all we need to do is to support him irrespective of any political differences,” the former commissioner urged.

  • Prove Matawalle gave palliatives to bandits or face prosecution — APC to PDP

    Prove Matawalle gave palliatives to bandits or face prosecution — APC to PDP

    The All Progressives Congress (APC), North-West Zone, has asked the members of the opposition party in Zamfara, accusing the Minister of State, Defence, Bello Matawalle of giving palliatives to bandits, to come forward with their evidences or risk prosecution.

    Musa Mada, Zonal Publicity Secretary of the party, disclosed this while addressing a press briefing in Kaduna on Sunday.

    Mada said that the party welcomed positive criticisms from the oppositions, but such criticisms should not violate the provisions of the freedom of speech.

    He accused the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), opposition government in Zamfara of persistent slandering of the immediate past Governor of the State, Matawalle.

    Mada stated that the grievous allegation against Matawalle can never be overlooked.

    He said that the sponsors of the fake news against the minister must provide proof of the alleged foodstuffs’ distribution.

    In the alternative, they must tender an apology to the minister on the pages of at least two national dailies within two weeks from Sunday.

    Mada said, “if no action is taken from the side of the sponsors of this fake news on expiration of the ultimatum, on 14th April 2024, a legal action will be instituted against them.

    “It has come to our notice that some unscrupulous elements in this geopolitical zone, particularly Zamfara, made it their daily habit of using instruments of mainstream and the new media in tarnishing the image of our party leaders.

    “Similarly, it is well known fact that the PDP opposition government in Zamfara made name for itself in slandering Matawalle

    ” As a party, we concede that slandering any of our members with ulterior motives is as good as attacking the structural foundation of our great party.

    ”Which is intolerable, let alone defaming the character and questioning the integrity of our leaders who earned their reputation through selfless service to the greater good of the entire nation.’

    According to Mada, APC welcomes positive criticism from the oppositions that do not violate the provisions of freedom of speech,adding, ”we will not condone any form of vituperation that overstepped boundaries of the provisions of the laws of the land.’.

  • Defence Minister, Matawalle gives directive on use of camouflage uniforms

    Defence Minister, Matawalle gives directive on use of camouflage uniforms

    The Minister of State for Defence, Dr Bello Matawalle, has reiterated the ban on unauthorised use of camouflage uniforms in the country.

    Matawalle said the present security situation warranted that only the Armed Forces and the Police should use camouflage uniforms while on joint operations.

    In a statement on Monday in Abuja by Mr Henshaw Ogubike, Director, Information, Press and Public Relations of the ministry, Matawalle warned agencies affected to abide with the directive.

    According to the minister, the present situation does not support unregulated use of military camouflage by people and agencies not authorised to do so.

    “This is because criminals among us have taken advantage of the military, police and other security agencies’ gears to perpetrate crimes,” he added.

    Matawalle therefore said banning paramilitary agencies from using military camouflage was to bring sanity to the system and checkmate criminals.

    The minister said that the armed forces and the police would enforce the ban which was earlier announced by the National Security Adviser (NSA), Malam Nuhu Ribadu.

    Those affected by the ban on use of camouflage are the Nigeria Immigration Service, Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, and Federal Fire Service, among others.