Minister of State for Defence, Dr. Bello Muhammed Matawalle, has warned former Rivers State governor and one time Minister of Transportation, Rotimi Amaechi, to desist from making comments that would incite Nigerians against the President Bola Tinubu government or he would face dire consequences.
Matawalle who was reacting to recent comments by Amaechi where he urged Nigerian youths to brace up and force out the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in 2027, condemned what he described as reckless and inciting remarks made by the former Minister, warning against any attempt to “mislead young Nigerians with a distorted narrative of violence and anarchy.”
Amaechi had, while addressing a press conference in Abuja on Wednesday, remarked that Nigerian politicians “steal, maim, and kill” to remain in power, and called on youths not to expect an easy ride in 2027 but to take the bull by the horn if they hope for a change.
But while reacting to the comments, Matawalle, a former Zamfara State governor, said Amaechi’s remarks were not only insulting to Nigerians but also a dangerous attempt to radicalize the youth and destabilize national security.
In a statement issued on Thursday by his Director of Press and Public Relations, Henshaw Ogubike, Matawalle emphasized that the government will not sit back and tolerate any form of subversive rhetoric aimed at undermining national unity or inciting lawlessness.
“It is both reckless and dangerous for a former public office holder to make such inflammatory remarks,” the Defence Minister said.
“At a time when the government is working tirelessly to consolidate national unity and security, no responsible leader should fan the flames of violence and political unrest.
“Nigeria is a sovereign nation governed by laws, not a jungle where power is seized through brute force.
“Let me make it clear: security agencies are on high alert. Any individual or group found inciting violence or attempting to destabilize this nation will face the full force of the law.
“President Tinubu’s commitment to the unity and progress of our great nation is unwavering. Haven experienced both military rule and democratic governance, he would never undermine the very democracy he has fought to uphold.
“Amaechi and others who believe they can manipulate our youth into chaos should rethink their actions. This government will not stand idly by while individuals attempt to disrupt the peace and stability of Nigeria,” he added.
