A prominent citizens’ advocacy group has voiced strong disapproval. The Coalition for Truth and National Interest (CTNI) condemned recent attacks on Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle. These attacks use an old video clip.

Comrade Olatokunbo Olawoyin, CTNI’s national president, issued a statement. He warned against attempts to politicise the year-old clip. Such actions serve only narrow partisan gains.

The group called the renewed attacks “opportunistic.” They said these attacks ignore Nigeria’s security realities. The video was recorded during a different national context.

CTNI urged the public to consider verifiable contributions. They advised against focusing on emotionally charged fragments. These fragments are often taken out of context.

“Recycling old footage harms reasoned discussions,” Olawoyin stated. “It distracts from urgent national security issues. This does not reflect the minister’s long commitment to stability. Nor does it show his current role in defence.”

The coalition highlighted Matawalle’s recent security efforts. They noted his key role in the Kebbi schoolgirls’ rescue. This operation was a major success.

The operation demanded careful coordination, the group explained. It also required tact and a deep understanding of Nigeria’s security landscape. This showed the minister’s capacity to act decisively.

“Consider the recent rescue,” Olawoyin urged. “Students from Government Girls Secondary School in Maga, Kebbi State, were freed. That successful operation was no accident.”

“It resulted from experience and careful planning,” Olawoyin continued. “A thorough understanding of North-West insecurity was also key. Those focused on past footage ignore his current contributions. These efforts promote national stability.”

The coalition also called on Nigerians. They must distinguish between understanding insecurity’s causes and condoning crime. Mixing these two can unfairly vilify officials. Such officials actively manage security.

“Nigeria faces many security pressures,” the statement noted. “The government needs competent individuals. They must grasp operational demands and human conflict dimensions. Minister Matawalle is a valuable asset.”

The group appealed to both media and public. They should prioritize national interest over sensationalism. Social media narratives should not distort public servants’ performance.

“Nigeria is at a crucial point,” the statement concluded. “We cannot afford distractions from fabricated controversies. This is no time to weaponise old videos. We must not pursue narratives that undermine nation-builders. The country needs unity, sober analysis, and facts. It does not need ‘outrage theatre’.”

CTNI urged citizens to focus on current service. They should consider evidence of leadership. Matawalle remains a valuable cabinet member under President Bola Tinubu. He significantly contributes to national defense and internal security.