A prominent Yoruba socio-political group has called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to order an immediate probe into serious allegations linking the Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle, to banditry and terrorist activities.
The Odua People’s Assembly (OPA) said the allegations are troubling and pose grave concerns for national security, especially at a time when the country is battling persistent insecurity across several regions.
In a statement released on Sunday and signed by its Chairman, Mr. Richard Olatunji Kayode, the group warned that silence or inaction by the Federal Government could further weaken public confidence in leadership and security institutions.
According to the Assembly, Nigeria cannot afford to ignore claims that suggest possible ties between senior government officials and criminal elements operating in the country.
Kayode described the situation as “alarming and unacceptable,” stressing that any hint of collaboration between public office holders and bandits undermines the sacrifices of security personnel and the suffering of affected communities.
He said the concern was heightened following the circulation of a video clip allegedly showing Bello Turji, a notorious bandit leader, speaking in defence of Minister Matawalle.
Kayode said: “Such claims erode public trust in our institutions and raise serious questions about the integrity of those entrusted with safeguarding our nation.”
He added that the video, regardless of how it is interpreted, has created a damaging perception that must be addressed through a transparent and credible investigation.
“The implications of this endorsement are chilling. It raises the specter of a disturbing alliance between government officials and criminal enterprises,” he said.
The Odua People’s Assembly maintained that any direct or indirect link between public officials and banditry amounts to a betrayal of Nigerians, particularly victims of attacks, kidnappings and displacement.
The group warned that failure to act decisively could embolden criminal groups and worsen insecurity in already fragile communities.
As part of its demands, the Assembly called for the immediate suspension and removal of Matawalle from his position as Minister of State for Defence, pending the outcome of an investigation.
Kayode said the step is necessary to restore confidence and demonstrate that the government is serious about tackling banditry without fear or favour.
He stated: “The perception of complicity, whether founded or unfounded, is a stain that cannot be ignored, especially at a time when the nation desperately needs unity and resolve against lawlessness.”
The group also urged the Federal Government to establish a clear and comprehensive framework to investigate the allegations.
It insisted that the inquiry must be handled by an independent body to ensure fairness, transparency and credibility.
According to the Assembly, such an investigation would not only address the claims against Matawalle but also expose deeper systemic issues that have allowed banditry to thrive in Nigeria.
The Odua People’s Assembly reaffirmed its commitment to advocating for the safety and rights of the Yoruba people and all Nigerians.
Kayode stressed that the fight against insecurity must cut across political, ethnic and regional lines.
“Our nation’s future depends on our willingness to confront these challenges with courage, integrity and an unwavering commitment to justice,” he said.
The group also urged Nigerians to remain vigilant and to demand accountability from leaders, insisting that public office holders must be held to the highest standards of transparency and responsibility.