The Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle, has cautioned opposition politicians against actions capable of inciting Nigerians against President Bola Tinubu’s constitutionally elected government.
In a statement issued on Friday in Kaduna through his Personal Assistant on Media, Ahmad Dan-Wudil, the minister condemned reports that a politician allegedly engaged a foreign lobbying firm to circulate decades-old documents relating to President Tinubu in the United States.
Mr Matawalle described such actions as unfortunate, stressing that they neither strengthen Nigeria’s democracy nor address the nation’s pressing challenges. He urged opposition leaders to support government efforts to tackle insecurity, strengthen national unity and improve citizens’ welfare, rather than undermining the Presidency.
The minister characterised the presidency as a national institution and a symbol of Nigeria’s sovereignty that deserves respect regardless of political differences. He asserted that no foreign government or lobbying firm could determine Nigeria’s democratic choices or overturn the mandate freely given by Nigerians.
Mr Matawalle emphasised that political disagreements should never be pursued at the expense of Nigeria’s image, unity and collective interest. He noted that United States President Donald Trump recently commended President Tinubu’s leadership and acknowledged Nigeria’s progress in strengthening security cooperation and combating terrorism.
According to the minister, this recognition reflects growing international confidence in Nigeria’s efforts and should encourage citizens to promote unity rather than divisive narratives abroad.
He maintained that propaganda and hatred against the government would neither weaken its progress nor ensure its survival, but would instead politically and morally discredit those behind such campaigns. He insisted that falsehood and mischief would not bring down the Tinubu administration, as Nigerians freely entrusted it with the mandate to govern.
The minister called on opposition politicians to embrace constructive engagement by offering credible alternatives and supporting efforts to combat insecurity, promote peaceful coexistence and accelerate national development. He also urged political actors to avoid actions capable of overheating the polity ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Mr Matawalle said every political actor bears a responsibility to protect Nigeria’s unity, stability and international reputation.