Forum Faults Foreign Calls For Matawalle’s Removal

The Former Parliamentarians Forum has dismissed calls for the removal of the Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle, describing them as misinformed and potentially harmful to Nigeria’s national security framework.

In a statement issued on Thursday and signed by its chairman, Gabriel Idoko, the group cautioned against what it termed the growing trend of external actors drawing conclusions about Nigeria’s security challenges without adequate understanding of local realities.

The Forum was reacting to remarks by Kimberly Daniels, a member of the United States lower legislative chamber, who reportedly called for Matawalle’s removal following a security assessment on violence in parts of northern Nigeria.

However, the group warned against turning such comments into policy prescriptions, noting that Nigeria’s security challenges are complex and deeply rooted.

“It is both simplistic and counterproductive to suggest that the removal of one public official would resolve challenges that have evolved over decades,” the statement read.

According to the Forum, Nigeria’s security architecture requires continuity, institutional memory, and coordinated leadership rather than abrupt disruptions driven by external commentary.

The group noted that since his appointment under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Matawalle has contributed to broader defence efforts, including joint military operations, intelligence coordination, and strategic engagements aimed at tackling insecurity.

While acknowledging ongoing challenges in parts of the North-West and North-Central regions, the Forum said there have been measurable gains in degrading armed groups, improving inter-agency collaboration, and restoring access to previously affected communities.

“These efforts are the result of sustained coordination among the armed forces, intelligence services, and political leadership. Disrupting that synergy on the basis of unverified allegations would be a disservice to national security,” the statement added.

The Forum also expressed concern over what it described as the “internationalisation” of Nigeria’s domestic security issues without due diligence, warning that such interventions could heighten tensions and embolden criminal elements.

It stressed that while concerns over insecurity are valid, accountability should be pursued through established legal and institutional mechanisms within Nigeria.

“Allegations, especially at high levels of government, must be substantiated through credible investigations by competent authorities,” the group said.

The Forum further argued that Matawalle’s experience as a former governor of Zamfara State provides valuable insight into the dynamics of rural insecurity and conflict resolution.

“Experience in governance, particularly in conflict-prone areas, is an asset that strengthens decision-making and response to evolving threats,” it noted.

On broader security strategies, the group called for sustained investment in intelligence gathering, community policing, and socio-economic interventions to address the root causes of violence.

It also urged stakeholders to support security agencies and avoid rhetoric that could undermine morale or public confidence.

“Constructive engagement, not sensational demands, is what Nigeria needs at this critical juncture. National security must not be politicised or personalised,” the statement added.

The Former Parliamentarians Forum reaffirmed its confidence in the current defence leadership and urged both Nigerians and international observers to adopt a more measured, evidence-based approach in assessing the country’s security situation.