Minister of State for Defence, Bello Muhammad Matawalle, has said that while security agencies are working relentlessly to tackle insecurity across Nigeria, only God can ultimately bring a complete end to the country’s security challenges.
Speaking during an interview with BBC Hausa, Matawalle described insecurity as a national problem that requires collective action, urging Nigerians to support security agencies and continue praying for lasting peace.
The minister stressed that insecurity affects all citizens irrespective of political affiliation, religion, or social status, warning politicians against exploiting the situation for partisan interests.
“It is painful, and we must all rise to ensure that security agencies and Nigerians work together to overcome insecurity in the country.
“Insecurity does not discriminate based on political affiliation or religion; it can affect anyone,” he said.
Matawalle accused some opposition politicians of using security challenges to score political points instead of supporting efforts aimed at restoring peace and stability.
“That is why we have urged members of the opposition to stop using insecurity to incite people.
“It is a challenge that can happen to anyone, and no Nigerian is happy about it. Unfortunately, some opposition figures appear to take satisfaction in the situation.
“They are not concerned about the people. Their focus is on portraying the government as a failure for political gain and misleading citizens into believing they alone can solve the problem,” he stated.
The minister maintained that ending insecurity requires not only government action but also divine intervention, collective prayers, and public support.
“It is only God that can bring an end to this insecurity, alongside our collective prayers and efforts.
“It should not be used as a tool to condemn others or score political points,” he added.
Misleading videos
Matawalle further alleged that some individuals have been circulating old and misleading videos on social media in a bid to discredit the administration of President Bola Tinubu and create the impression that security conditions are deteriorating.
He claimed that several of the videos being shared online were recorded during previous administrations or in neighbouring countries such as Burkina Faso and Mali but are falsely presented as recent incidents occurring in Nigeria.
The minister, however, insisted that security personnel remain committed to combating terrorism, banditry, kidnapping, and other criminal activities across the country.
He noted that insecurity is a global challenge that cannot be completely eradicated overnight, emphasizing that significant efforts are ongoing to improve the security situation nationwide.
Matawalle therefore appealed to Nigerians to continue supporting the armed forces and other security agencies while sustaining prayers for the restoration of peace and stability.
His remarks come amid renewed concerns over insecurity following recent attacks, kidnappings, and violent incidents reported in several parts of the country, including Oyo and Borno states.
