Gusau shuts down as residents storm streets to welcome minister Bello Matawalle

A massive crowd of about two million residents, shut down Gusau, Zamfara State, in a historic homecoming reception for the Minister of State for Defence and former governor, Dr Bello Mohammed Matawalle.

Witnesses said the city became a “living river of people,” with streets, roundabouts and market lanes packed with supporters rushing out as though responding to a single call of loyalty.

The moment Matawalle’s convoy entered the capital, a thunderous roar swept across Gusau.

Supporters said the overwhelming turnout reflected what they described as the life-changing projects he delivered as governor. They pointed to extensive road rehabilitation that opened new trade routes, the new airport project, expanded borehole schemes, and renovated primary health centres across communities.

They also praised his contributions to security, including the provision of vehicles and operational support that strengthened local peace efforts.

As the convoy moved in, the atmosphere grew electrified. Women lined the roads singing praises, youths danced in long processions, and elderly men in traditional attire offered emotional prayers.

Traders abandoned their shops, students climbed vehicles to wave banners, and thousands screamed his name until their voices faltered. Many residents said the city had not witnessed such a scene in years.

Political associates and community leaders described the reception as a renewed endorsement of his legacy, insisting that “no leader attracts such a human wave without touching lives”.

Several supporters maintained that Matawalle remains the most influential political figure in Zamfara and expressed confidence that he would again “deliver the state” to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in 2027.

They chanted this repeatedly across the capital, saying the turnout itself was a declaration of trust in his leadership.

For many residents, the homecoming was more than a welcome parade. It was a public display of gratitude for what they believe were decisive projects and interventions that reshaped the state.

Across Gusau, one message echoed throughout the day: the people still stand firmly with Bello Mohammed Matawalle because, in their words, he “delivered when it mattered.”