Former Minister of Aviation, Femi Fani-Kayode, has condemned what he describes as a calculated media onslaught against the Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle, alleging that political detractors are behind the smear campaign.
In a statement shared Thursday on his official 𝕏 (formerly Twitter) account, Fani-Kayode said the recent wave of criticism directed at Matawalle was the handiwork of opposition figures determined to weaken the minister’s credibility and undermine his contributions to national security.
Calling the attacks “shameless, vicious, and utterly nauseating,” he maintained that Matawalle has remained fiercely loyal to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and fully committed to ongoing counter-terrorism operations since assuming office.
‘A Record of Security Gains’
Fani-Kayode also praised the synergy between Matawalle and National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu, saying their combined leadership has delivered remarkable results in Nigeria’s fight against terrorism.
According to him, the security duo has recorded “more terrorist neutralisations in the last two years than the previous eight years combined.”
However, he lamented what he called an unnecessary hush surrounding these achievements.
“My only concern is that these successes are not being publicised. Nigerians and the international community deserve to know what is being accomplished,” he said.
‘Stay Focused, Ignore the Distractions’
The former aviation minister urged Matawalle to remain unwavering despite the backlash.
“I encourage my friend and brother to stay the course. The critics are mere ‘bad belle’ distractions, and he must not allow them to derail his mission,” Fani-Kayode said.
He described Matawalle as a “determined, fearless, and uncompromising warrior,” noting that these qualities have strengthened their 15-year relationship.
Confidence in Musa’s Appointment
Fani-Kayode also reacted to the recent appointment of retired Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, as the new Minister of Defence. He expressed optimism that Musa’s inclusion would further fortify the nation’s security architecture.
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“With General Musa joining Ribadu, Matawalle, and the newly appointed Service Chiefs, I am convinced Nigeria now has an even stronger and more effective security team,” he stated.
