The Zamfara State Government’s allegations linking Dr. Bello Matawalle, the Minister of State for Defence, to the arrest of Saleem Abubakar are entirely baseless and politically driven.
According to Matawalle’s aide, Honorable Ubaidullah Yahaya Kaura, the claims are nothing more than a shameless and useless attempt to smear the minister’s reputation after repeated failures to tarnish his image.
He said Sulaiman Bala Idris, the spokesperson for the Zamfara State Governor, has been spreading falsehoods and propaganda against the minister.
“The Zamfara State Government has consistently sought to damage Matawalle’s name out of hatred and political fear,” the statement said
The statement further questioned the motive of the Zamfara governor’s media aide, suggesting that he should consider alternative employment since his efforts to defame Matawalle will continue to fail.
It also challenges the narrative that Matawalle is the only target of Saleem’s criticisms on social media, implying that Sulaiman Bala and Governor Dauda Lawal’s associates are behind the attacks on high-ranking officials.
The Zamfara State Government’s accusations that Matawalle influenced or authorized Saleem’s arrest are unfounded. As Minister of State for Defence, Matawalle does not control security agencies or direct their operations for political purposes. Involving the Office of the National Security Adviser in partisan politics is described as reckless and irresponsible. Security agencies act based on intelligence and legal mandates, not political directives.
Ubaidullah challenges anyone with evidence to come forward instead of resorting to propaganda and media trials. He reaffirms Matawalle’s commitment to the rule of law, due process, and democratic values, urging the public to dismiss these diversionary tactics. The statement emphasizes that national security should never be politicized.
Additionally, it notes that Matawalle, as a citizen, retains the right to pursue legal action against anyone who defames him, ensuring accountability under the law.
