Only God can end Nigeria’s security challenges – Matawalle

Minister of State for Defence, Bello Muhammad Matawalle, has suggested that only God can ultimately bring an end to Nigeria’s security challenges.

Speaking in an interview with BBC Hausa, Matawalle described insecurity as a national challenge that requires cooperation from all Nigerians, urging citizens to support security agencies and pray for peace.

He warned politicians against exploiting security challenges for political gain, saying insecurity affects all Nigerians regardless of political affiliation or religion.

“It’s disheartening, and we must all rise to ensure that security agencies and Nigerians work together to end insecurity in the country. Insecurity does not discriminate based on political affiliation or religion. It can affect anyone.

“That is why we have urged 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 members of the opposition appear pleased with the situation.

“They do not care about the people. What matters to them is portraying the government as a failure for their own political interests and deceiving people into believing they alone can end insecurity.

“It is only God that can bring to 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 said.

According to the minister, some opposition figures have used insecurity to criticize the government, rather than supporting efforts to address the challenge.

Matawalle also alleged that old and misleading videos are being circulated on social media to portray the administration of President Bola Tinubu as failing in its efforts to tackle insecurity.

He said some of the videos being shared online were recorded during previous administrations or in other countries, including Burkina Faso and Mali, but are being presented as recent incidents in Nigeria.

The minister maintained that security operatives are working tirelessly across the country to combat terrorism and other forms of criminality, adding that insecurity is a global challenge that cannot be eliminated overnight.

Matawalle appealed to Nigerians to continue supporting security agencies and praying for the restoration of peace across the country.

His comments come amid renewed security concerns following recent attacks and abductions in parts of Nigeria, including Oyo and Borno states.

Only God can end Nigeria’s security challenges – Matawalle