The Niger Delta Youth Congress (NDYC) has issued a press release strongly criticizing recent accusations made by Zamfara State Governor Dauda Lawal against the Minister of State for Defense, Bello Matawalle.
According to the statement, Governor Lawal has accused Matawalle, his predecessor, of involvement in banditry activities. The NDYC denounced these allegations as “unfounded” and “politically motivated,” suggesting they are intended to “sabotage security progress” in Zamfara State.
The youth organization praised the Defense Ministry’s recent efforts in combating banditry, highlighting the “strategic elimination of notorious bandit leaders” such as Halilu Sububu. They contrasted these successes with Governor Lawal’s accusations, questioning the timing and motives behind his statements.
The NDYC expressed concern that the governor’s actions could obstruct the Defense Ministry’s operations in the region. They called on the federal government to consider declaring a state of emergency in Zamfara, arguing this would allow security agencies to operate without political interference.
The press release urged Governor Lawal to retract his statements and support ongoing security initiatives. It also called for unity in the fight against banditry, emphasizing that security should not be politicized.
The NDYC further suggested that Governor Lawal’s focus on these accusations, rather than on collaboration with security agencies, raises questions about his priorities. They called on Nigerians to remain vigilant against those who might benefit from ongoing insecurity.