‘I am qualified to be defence minister’: Matawalle breaks silence as Nigerians call for his resignation

Special Adviser on Political Matters to the Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle, Ibrahim Maigandi Dan Malikin, reacted to recent allegations that his principal is unqualified for his ministerial portfolio.

Dan Malikin described the criticisms as “politically motivated” and “a glaring fabrication,” insisting that the Minister has the competence, experience, and leadership ability required for the job.

Addressing a press conference in Abuja on Friday, the aide dismissed the narrative that the Defence portfolio should only be held by a member of the armed forces, stating that such critics are “ignorant of Nigeria’s history.”

He pointed out that civilian leadership in defence administration is not strange to Nigeria’s democratic practice.

Historical records support this position, showing several past Ministers of Defence, such as Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso (2003–2007), Mahmud Yayale Ahmed (2007–2008), and Adetokunbo Kayode (2010–2011), were all civilians who credibly managed the ministry during periods of national crisis.

Dan Malikin also defended Matawalle’s previous actions as Governor of Zamfara State, where he faced intense banditry. According to the aide, Matawalle utilized a mix of military force (kinetic) and dialogue/amnesty (non-kinetic) measures to address banditry and kidnapping.

Dan Malikin claimed that the emergency security strategies introduced in Zamfara were later adopted by neighboring states, including Kaduna, Katsina, Kebbi, Niger, and Sokoto, resulting in notable improvements in regional security before opponents began misrepresenting his actions.

According to him, that insecurity should never be politicized, as it is a national challenge that “demands unity, cooperation and sincerity of purpose.”

Regarding allegations that Matawalle lacks the necessary educational qualifications, Dan Malikin reiterated that the claims are false.

The aide also confirmed that the Minister met all constitutional requirements and was duly screened and cleared by the Senate, arguing that competence and leadership ability outweigh reliance on certificates alone.

He accused political rivals of orchestrating the misinformation campaign, especially following Matawalle’s recent high-profile activities and growing national recognition

He said the clarification became necessary to prevent the spread of “untruths capable of misleading unsuspecting Nigerians.”

There have been calls for the President to fire Matawalle following a surge in terrorist and bandit attacks in many states in the past three weeks