Northern Christian Youth Coalition Calls For Dismissal Of Matawalle

The Northern Christian Youth Coalition (NCYC) has called for the dismissal of the Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle, citing “grave allegations” that undermine the integrity of the nation’s security architecture.

In a statement issued on Thursday by its National Coordinator, Jeremaid Hudso Bako, the group emphasised the need for accountability and the restoration of public trust in government institutions.

Bako remarked that the recent dismissal of Farouk Ahmed, the former Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA), is a welcome step towards promoting transparency in public service. He urged that the same standard be applied to other high-ranking officials facing serious allegations.

He stated, “The recent dismissal of Farouk Ahmed serves as a crucial reminder of the need for accountability in public office. While we commend this action, we insist that the Bola Ahmed Tinubu administration extend this cleansing process to include the Minister of State for Defence.

“The accusations against Bello Matawalle are not only severe but also deeply troubling, as they relate to issues of national security that are paramount to the stability and safety of our nation.

“The allegations surrounding Bello Matawalle are grave and cannot be overlooked. Reports indicate that he has been implicated in various activities that compromise the integrity of our defence apparatus and, by extension, the safety of our citizens.

“In a time when insecurity looms large over our nation, with rampant banditry, terrorism, and other forms of violence threatening the very fabric of our society, it is unacceptable to have a Minister of State for Defence whose actions may exacerbate these challenges.

“The defence of our nation is not merely a bureaucratic function; it is a sacred duty that demands the highest standards of ethical conduct and accountability. As the NCYC, we are deeply concerned about the implications of retaining an individual in such a critical position when credible accusations have been made against them.

“The Ministry of Defence is tasked with safeguarding our nation’s sovereignty and ensuring the protection of our citizens. Any compromise in this regard is not just a failure of leadership; it is a betrayal of the trust placed in public officials by the people. We believe that the integrity of our government must be upheld, and this can only be achieved through decisive action against those who threaten it.”

Bako emphasised that the defence portfolio is a “sacred trust” requiring the highest standards of ethical conduct and transparency.

The NCYC stressed that the Tinubu administration’s stated commitment to transparency, accountability, and good governance must be reflected in decisive actions against officials whose conduct raises questions about their integrity.

He concluded, “The failure to act against Bello Matawalle would send a contradictory message, undermining the very principles that the administration seeks to uphold.

“It is essential that the government demonstrates its resolve to cleanse the ranks of leadership of any elements that may threaten the stability and security of our nation.

“Moreover, we believe that the removal of Bello Matawalle is not just about addressing individual misconduct; it is about setting a precedent for future governance. It is a clarion call for all public officials to understand that their actions have consequences and that accountability is non-negotiable.

“We urge President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to take this opportunity to reinforce the values of integrity and accountability within his administration, ensuring that all officials are held to the highest standards of conduct.

“The Northern Christian Youth Coalition calls upon the President to act swiftly and decisively regarding Bello Matawalle’s continued tenure as Minister of State for Defence.

“The time for action is now, as the safety and security of our nation depend on the integrity of those who lead us. We stand ready to support any measures that will contribute to establishing a clean and accountable government that prioritises the welfare of its citizens above all else.”