The Minister of State for Defence, Dr Bello Mohammed Matawalle, has accused opposition politicians of attempting to undermine Nigeria’s democratic institutions through foreign campaigns against President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, urging them to embrace constructive engagement instead.
Matawalle’s reaction followed reports that former Vice President Atiku Abubakar had hired a United States lobbying firm to circulate old documents relating to President Tinubu.
Reacting in a statement issued on Friday by his media aide, Ahmad Dan-Wudil, the minister said the reported move would neither strengthen democracy nor solve Nigeria’s socio-economic and security challenges.
“Rather than seeking to tarnish Nigeria’s image abroad and undermine the Presidency, opposition leaders should channel their energy towards supporting government efforts to tackle insecurity, strengthen national unity and improve the welfare of Nigerians,” he said.
According to Matawalle, no external influence can overturn the will of Nigerians expressed through constitutional democratic processes.
“No foreign government or lobbying firm will determine Nigeria’s democratic choices or alter the mandate freely given by Nigerians.
“Our political differences must never come at the expense of our country’s image and collective interest,” he stated.
The minister argued that the Tinubu administration was already receiving increasing international recognition for its efforts against terrorism and insecurity.
He cited recent commendation by former US President Donald Trump on Nigeria’s security cooperation, saying it reflected growing confidence in the administration.
“Such international recognition reflects the growing confidence in Nigeria’s efforts under President Tinubu and should encourage all patriotic citizens to work together rather than promote divisive narratives abroad,” he said.
Matawalle also warned against what he called campaigns of hatred and misinformation.
“Promoting propaganda and hatred against a government supported by the goodwill of people will not affect its wellbeing, survival and progress.
“Rather, it will backfire on those sponsoring such utterances to be shamed politically and morally,” he declared.
He described those expecting President Tinubu’s government to collapse through alleged falsehoods as “jokers,” insisting Nigerians would ultimately determine the country’s leadership in the 2027 elections.
The minister appealed to opposition parties to offer credible alternatives, support efforts to combat insecurity and avoid actions capable of overheating the political atmosphere.
“Nigeria belongs to all of us, and every political actor has a responsibility to protect the country’s unity, stability and international reputation,” he added.
