Prominent Nigerian activist and former Kaduna Central Senator, Shehu Sani, has dismissed recent calls for the dismissal of Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle, as politically driven and unwarranted, urging appreciation for the minister’s role in securing the release of kidnapped students in Kebbi State.
In a statement posted on his X (formerly Twitter) account on Wednesday, Sani expressed optimism about the leadership of the Chief of Defence Staff, Gen. Christopher Musa, who recently assumed oversight of the Defence Ministry.
“With Christopher Musa taking charge of the Defence Ministry, I’m confident that he will steer the Ministry in the right direction,” Sani wrote.
He went on to label the push for Matawalle’s ouster as “undoubtedly politically motivated, mischievous and unnecessary,” highlighting the minister’s contributions amid ongoing security challenges in the country.
Sani specifically commended Matawalle for his efforts in the successful rescue operation of the Kebbi schoolgirls, who were abducted a few weeks back by suspected bandits, along with other hostages.
“He commendably delivered on securing the release of the Kebbi Girls students along with others, and should be appreciated and encouraged,” the statement read.
Sani emphasised that operational responsibility for combating banditry and terrorism remains firmly with the military’s leadership and other security agencies.
“The leadership of the Military and other security services are still directly responsible for the battle against these criminal bandits and terrorists,” he added, in a subtle reminder of the broader institutional framework governing national security.
The remarks come amid heightened scrutiny of Nigeria’s defence apparatus, following a series of high-profile abductions and attacks in the northwest region.
Advocacy groups and opposition figures have intensified demands for accountability at the top levels of the security ministry, pointing to persistent insecurity despite federal interventions.
Matawalle, a former governor of Zamfara State, has faced criticism for his handling of banditry issues during his tenure and in his current role, though supporters credit him with advancing diplomatic and intelligence-led approaches to hostage negotiations.
Sani, known for his outspoken commentary on governance and human rights, has long advocated for non-partisan approaches to security reforms.
His intervention appears aimed at de-escalating political tensions surrounding the ministry at a time when President Bola Tinubu’s administration is recalibrating its security strategy under Musa’s expanded mandate.
As Nigeria grapples with escalating threats from non-state actors, Sani’s call for encouragement rather than recrimination shows a broader debate on balancing political accountability with operational continuity in the fight against insurgency.