Group Dismisses Lawal’s Criticism, Hails Matawalle’s Security Efforts 

The North has emerged as a region of peace under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, contrasting sharply with the insecurity experienced during the previous administration, according to the Northern Concerned Citizens (NCC).

The group also said in 2027, leaders like Bello Matawalle, who prioritise the well-being of the people, will continue to ensure the safety and security of the North.

In a statement released yesterday, the NCC’s chairman, Muhammad Umar Katsina, said the Minister of State for Defence, Dr Bello Mattawalle, who has been deployed to the region, deserves commendation for restoring peace.

Katsina noted that unlike the previous administration, which witnessed frequent kidnappings of traditional rulers, students, and farmers, security in the North has significantly improved under Matawalle as defence minister for state.

“The people of the North will continue to support President Tinubu’s ongoing efforts to strengthen the nation,” Katsina said.

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He criticised former Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Babachir Lawal, for suggesting that Tinubu may not be re-elected.

Katsina highlighted that in just 19 months in office, President Tinubu has initiated reforms that have positively impacted all regions of Nigeria, particularly the North.

This, he argued, stands in stark comparison to the achievements of former President Muhammadu Buhari, despite him being from the region.

Katsina dismissed Lawal’s claims as part of a broader effort to undermine the strong relationship between the North and the current administration.

“Any attempt to weaken national unity and security, particularly through divisive rhetoric, must be seen for what it is – a deliberate effort to sow discord,” he stated.
The statement also pointed to significant improvements in security under the current administration.

He said, “In 2024 alone, Nigerian security forces neutralised over 8,000 terrorists and bandits, arrested more than 11,600 criminals, and recovered over 10,000 weapons.” These efforts, according to the NCC, have significantly improved safety, particularly in the North.

The establishment of the Multi-Agency Anti-Kidnap Fusion Cell (MAAKFC) in December 2024, in partnership with the UK’s National Crime Agency, further demonstrates the government’s commitment to tackling security challenges. The rescue of around 8,000 kidnapping victims was also highlighted as a key achievement.