In response to allegations of aiding banditry, Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle, has vehemently denied the accusations and challenged his accusers to provide evidence to support their claims. During an interview on Channels Television’s Sunrise Daily, Matawalle defended his decision to engage in dialogue with bandits, emphasizing that this approach has been instrumental in securing the release of abducted individuals and recovering ammunition in Zamfara.
Matawalle while speaking on Channeltv program and monitored by THE OBSERVERS TIMES. called on his critics to present any proof of his involvement in sponsoring bandits, asserting that his actions were in line with the practices of several governors who have engaged in dialogue with criminal elements. He highlighted the complexity of the situation in Zamfara, describing it as a state with challenging circumstances and individuals with nefarious intentions.
The minister further suggested that those accusing him of complicity in banditry are themselves involved in such activities. He emphasized his commitment to upholding the truth and challenged his detractors, including General Ali Gusau and Dauda Lawal, to take an oath to affirm their innocence, as he had done.
Matawalle underscored the success of the dialogue approach in addressing security challenges, citing the recovery of weapons and the release of numerous abducted individuals, including foreign nationals. He attributed the opposition he faces to his unwavering pursuit of criminal elements in Zamfara, noting that his fearlessness has made him a target for those engaged in illicit activities.
The minister condemned attempts to tarnish his reputation and expressed pride in the achievements made through dialogue without resorting to ransom payments. He refuted allegations of embezzlement, dismissing claims of misappropriation of state funds as baseless accusations propagated by Governor Dauda Lawal.
In conclusion, Matawalle urged his accusers to focus on governance and the welfare of the people, emphasizing the importance of continuity in leadership and the need for constructive dialogue to address security challenges effectively.