“Those Attacking Tinubu Are Only Seeking Relevance” — Defence Minister

The Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle, has taken a swipe at critics of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, accusing them of peddling propaganda to remain politically relevant.

Naijaonpoint reports that Matawalle said these detractors are driven by frustration and desperation after failing to secure positions in the current administration.

The former Governor of Zamfara State made this known in a statement signed by his Special Assistant on Political Affairs, Ibrahim Goga, on Friday.

In it, Matawalle offered a strong rebuttal to claims that President Tinubu is a liability in the North, citing the administration’s achievements in security and infrastructure as evidence of its impact.

“President Tinubu has demonstrated an uncommon commitment to addressing the challenges facing our region,” Matawalle said, adding that such criticisms were largely driven by political motives.

“Those attacking him with propaganda are only seeking relevance after failing to secure their political future,” he asserted.

Matawalle further alleged that a section of the political class—many of whom once held influential roles—are now promoting misinformation to remain in the spotlight and mask their poor legacies.

“These individuals had the opportunity to lead but left no meaningful legacy. Today, they parade themselves as defenders of the people, using falsehoods and crocodile tears to win sympathy,” he noted.

On security, Matawalle pointed to significant progress under the Tinubu-led government. He particularly referenced Operation Fansan Yamma, which he credited with dismantling terror structures and restoring peace in volatile areas.

“Our security forces, backed by the President’s proactive strategies, have recorded remarkable successes.

“This Easter and Ramadan season were among the most peaceful in years for many northern communities,” he stated.

Beyond security, Matawalle also spotlighted the revival of key infrastructure projects across the North as further proof of the administration’s commitment.

He listed the Zaria-Gusau-Talata Mafara-Sokoto expressway and the Abuja-Kaduna-Kano highway as major developments brought back to life under Tinubu’s leadership.

“These projects were abandoned for years, but President Tinubu has revived them. Critics deliberately ignore these achievements because they do not serve their narrative,” he said.

Calling for unity, Matawalle urged the Northern populace to reject divisive agendas and instead focus on collective development.

“We must be part of the solution, not the problem. The North stands to gain more through unity and support for a working leadership,” he concluded.