Minister of State for Defence Bello Matawalle has urged the opposition to refrain from making statements that could provoke public hostility toward the current administration, stressing that national interest must always outweigh partisan politics.
He criticised Atiku Abubakar, the presidential candidate of the African Democratic Congress, for hiring a foreign lobbying firm to circulate decades‑old documents concerning President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in the United States, arguing that such actions do not strengthen Nigeria’s democratic institutions nor address the country’s pressing socio‑economic and security challenges.
In a statement issued on Friday by his media aide Ahmad Dan Wudil, Matawalle said opposition leaders should redirect their energy toward supporting government efforts to curb insecurity, foster national unity and improve the welfare of Nigerians instead of launching overseas campaigns aimed at discrediting the nation.
The minister emphasised that the presidency remains a sacred national institution and a symbol of Nigeria’s sovereignty, deserving respect regardless of political affiliation or election outcomes.
According to the statement, “No foreign government or lobbying firm will determine Nigeria’s democratic choices or overturn the mandate freely bestowed on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu by the Nigerian electorate.”
Matawalle added that political disagreements must never be allowed to tarnish Nigeria’s international image, urging patriotic leaders to project the country’s interests positively before the global community.
He noted that recent commendation from United States President Donald Trump for President Tinubu’s leadership — particularly on security cooperation and counter‑terrorism — demonstrates growing international confidence in Nigeria’s direction, and such recognition should inspire national unity and backing for ongoing reforms rather than fuel negative portrayals abroad.
He warned that those spreading falsehoods and sponsoring divisive narratives against Tinubu’s government will ultimately suffer political and moral repercussions, while Nigerians remain steadfast in protecting their democratic mandate.
Matawalle expressed confidence that no amount of foreign lobbying, misinformation or political maneuvering can erode the trust placed in the Tinubu administration, reiterating that only the Nigerian people hold the constitutional authority to choose their leaders through the ballot box.
He called on opposition politicians to engage constructively by presenting credible policy alternatives, supporting efforts to combat insecurity, strengthening peaceful coexistence and accelerating national development.
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