Lawyer Demands Suspension of Nigeria’s Defence Minister Amid Renewed Banditry Allegations

A constitutional lawyer and human rights advocate, Hamza N. Dantani, has called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to immediately suspend the Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle, or compel him to step aside to allow for an independent investigation into lingering security-related allegations.

In a public statement, Dantani expressed concern over the persistent insecurity in parts of northern Nigeria, arguing that unresolved controversies surrounding the defence minister could undermine national efforts to combat banditry and terrorism. He maintained that allegations linked to Matawalle’s time as Governor of Zamfara State remain a subject of public concern and deserve thorough scrutiny.

The lawyer stressed that while the accusations do not amount to a declaration of guilt, allowing Matawalle to remain in office during any probe could weaken public confidence in the government’s commitment to transparency and accountability. He added that a temporary suspension would ensure a fair, credible, and unhindered investigation.

Dantani further warned that Nigeria’s security challenges require decisive leadership and urged the presidency to demonstrate zero tolerance for any action or association that could compromise national security.

The demand has intensified public debate over security leadership in the Tinubu administration, as citizens and advocacy groups continue to push for stronger accountability amid ongoing attacks and kidnappings in several northern states.