The Former Parliamentarians Forum has dismissed calls for the removal of the Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle, describing them as misinformed and lacking proper understanding of Nigeria’s security realities.
The group warned that external interventions in Nigeria’s internal security matters, if not carefully handled, could undermine ongoing efforts to stabilise volatile regions across the country.
PrimeTimes Nigeria reports that the Forum, in a statement signed by its chairman, Hon. Gabriel Idoko, was reacting to remarks by Kimberly Daniels, who recently called for Matawalle’s removal following a security assessment on Nigeria.
According to the Forum, such conclusions were based on “selective interpretations” of complex security challenges.
“It is both simplistic and counterproductive to suggest that the removal or redeployment of one public official would resolve challenges that have evolved over decades,” the statement said.
The group emphasised that Nigeria’s security issues are deeply rooted and require coordinated institutional responses rather than individual blame.
It noted that Matawalle operates within a broader defence framework under the administration of Bola Tinubu, contributing to joint military operations and intelligence coordination.
“These efforts are the product of sustained collaboration among the armed forces, intelligence services, and political leadership,” the Forum said.
“Disrupting that synergy on the basis of unverified allegations would be a disservice to national security.”
The Forum also cautioned against what it described as the growing trend of external actors influencing domestic security discourse without adequate engagement with local realities.
It warned that such interventions could inflame tensions and embolden non-state actors if not properly grounded in verified information.
While acknowledging ongoing security challenges, particularly in the North-Central and North-West regions, the Forum stressed that accountability must follow due process.
“Allegations of complicity, especially at high levels of government, must be substantiated through credible investigations by competent authorities,” the statement added.
The group further argued that Matawalle’s background as a former governor of Zamfara State provides valuable insight into tackling rural insecurity and community-based conflicts.
“Experience in governance, particularly in conflict-prone environments, is an asset—not a liability,” the Forum stated.
The Forum urged stakeholders to support security agencies and avoid rhetoric capable of undermining morale or public confidence.
“Constructive engagement, not sensational demands, is what Nigeria needs at this critical juncture,” it said.
The group reaffirmed confidence in the current defence leadership and calling for a measured, evidence-based approach to assessing Nigeria’s security situation.