The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has called for the immediate removal of the Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle, following allegations linking him to banditry activities, describing the claims as shocking and deeply troubling.
The student body said Nigerians deserve to know the truth behind the allegations and insisted that the federal government must demonstrate transparency and accountability in handling the matter.
In a statement signed on Monday by the President of the Senate of NANS Headquarters, Usman Adamu Nagwaza, the association said it was “shocked and appalled by the allegations surrounding the Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle, and his alleged relationship with bandits.”
NANS described the allegations as a “serious breach of trust,” adding that they raise grave questions about Matawalle’s integrity and suitability to remain in public office.
According to the association, the allegations are particularly disturbing given Matawalle’s position as a senior government official tasked with safeguarding the nation against security threats.
“His alleged relationship with bandits is a betrayal of the trust reposed in him by the Nigerian people and undermines the government’s efforts to combat insecurity,” the statement read.
NANS demanded that Matawalle be removed from office with immediate effect pending the outcome of a full investigation, stressing that such action is necessary to ensure a fair and unhindered inquiry and to prevent further damage to national security.
The association further claimed that the minister’s alleged ties with bandits may have emboldened criminal elements, leading to the displacement of innocent Nigerians across affected communities.
“It is no gainsaying that the Minister’s alleged relationship with bandits has emboldened these criminals and contributed to the suffering of innocent Nigerians,” NANS stated, adding that his removal was essential to restore public confidence in the government’s commitment to tackling insecurity.
NANS also urged President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to act swiftly on the matter, warning that Nigerians would not tolerate corruption or any form of complicity with terrorists.
“It is essential that the government takes decisive action to address these allegations,” the statement said.
The student body warned that it would not remain silent if the government is perceived to be condoning corruption or complicity with banditry.
It issued a one-week ultimatum for Matawalle’s removal, threatening to mobilise Nigerian students nationwide to block major highways in their respective states if its demand is not met.
NANS stressed that it is “sacrosanct that the government takes immediate action to investigate the allegations against Bello Matawalle and bring him to justice if found guilty,” emphasising that the rule of law must be upheld and all wrongdoing punished.
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