In a bold and unsettling declaration, notorious terrorist Mohammed Bello Turji Kachalla, known as Turji, has once again accused the current Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle, of aiding terrorism in Nigeria's Northwest region. This renewed accusation comes despite previous denials from Matawalle’s camp, and it underscores the persistent security challenges plaguing the region.
In a recently released video, Turji reiterated his claims that Matawalle, who served as the Governor of Zamfara State before being appointed as the Minister of State for Defence by President Bola Tinubu in August 2023, has ties with bandits operating in the region. Turji, who has been a significant figure in the terrorist activities across northern Nigerian states including Zamfara, Sokoto, and Niger, has insisted that Matawalle played a role in facilitating these activities.
Turji's allegations first emerged last year but were swiftly denied by Matawalle’s representatives. Despite the denials, Turji has continued to assert that his claims are based on truth and has challenged the public and authorities to investigate rather than dismiss them as mere propaganda.
Turji’s latest video includes detailed accusations against Matawalle and his alleged involvement in the kidnapping and subsequent release of female students in Marado. He questioned, "Since you said Bashari is not a bandit and said Matawalle has no hand in the banditry activities, I am asking you from whom did they rescue the girls?" This pointed question underscores the gravity of his accusations and the need for thorough investigation.
Turji has also alleged that despite claims of surrender, bandit activities continue unabated between Zamfara and Sokoto states. He accused Matawalle of complicity, asserting that the former governor's administration was deeply involved in supporting these criminal activities. "If you don't have knowledge about the situation, go and investigate and stop misleading the public," Turji stated, urging a closer look into Matawalle’s tenure as governor.
In response, Matawalle's camp has consistently refuted these claims, describing them as baseless and malicious. In a rejoinder signed by Deyemi Saka, Lead Partner at Lambert and Curtis, the allegations were dismissed as “unfounded lies” and part of a sustained attack on Matawalle’s integrity. The statement highlighted Matawalle’s efforts to combat banditry during his tenure as governor, emphasizing his refusal to negotiate with bandits and his insistence on a robust response to criminal activities.
“Our attention has been drawn to a video shared on the X (formerly Twitter) and Facebook page of your media organization in which baseless, malicious, unfounded, mischievous, and deliberate concocted lies were told against the Honourable Minister of State for Defense, H.E Dr. Bello Muhammed Matawalle,” the statement read.
The rejoinder also noted that all arms seized from bandits during Matawalle’s governorship were submitted to the relevant security agencies, and there is a record of these activities. “The Government House does not have an armory, and it is also on record that the cache of arms was handed over to relevant security agencies of government,” the statement added, seeking to clear Matawalle’s name.
The accusations have sparked significant public and political reactions, with many calling for a thorough investigation into the claims. Turji’s statements have further complicated the already tense security situation in Nigeria's Northwest, where banditry and terrorism have severely impacted the lives of ordinary citizens.
Turji’s continued influence and his ability to release such statements underscore the challenges facing Nigerian security forces. His operations have destabilized large parts of northern Nigeria, causing widespread fear and insecurity. The accusations against Matawalle, if proven true, would indicate a severe breach of trust and complicity at the highest levels of state governance.
Given the seriousness of Turji's allegations, there is a growing call for an independent investigation. Many believe that only a transparent and comprehensive inquiry can restore public confidence and ensure that those responsible for supporting terrorism are held accountable.
The ongoing saga involving Turji and Matawalle highlights the deep-seated issues of corruption, insecurity, and governance in Nigeria. As the nation grapples with these challenges, it is crucial for the authorities to address these allegations with the seriousness they deserve. The future of Nigeria’s security and the trust of its people depend on the government's ability to investigate and resolve such critical issues.
The accusations against Bello Matawalle by Turji bring to light the complex and dangerous dynamics of terrorism and governance in Nigeria. As the country continues to battle these issues, the need for transparency, accountability, and justice becomes ever more pressing. Only through decisive action can Nigeria hope to overcome the scourge of terrorism and ensure a safer future for its citizens.
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