Matawalle targeted over 2027 return, says advocacy group

A political advocacy group, Youth for Emancipation of Zamfara, has alleged that the ongoing criticisms and political battles targeted at the Minister of State for Defence, Dr. Bello Mohammed Matawalle, are fueled by fears of his potential political comeback in the 2027 general elections.

The group’s President and security expert, Maj. Mohammed Gusau rtd, claimed in a press release issued to journalists on Sunday.

According to Gusau, the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) and Governor Dauda Lawal deliberately orchestrated attacks against Matawalle to tarnish his reputation and weaken his political base in Zamfara State. The group stated that the minister, a former governor of the state, remains a formidable political figure and that his influence continues to unsettle the current administration and support the return of President Tinubu in 2027.

Gusau accused the PDP of embarking on a smear campaign to create an unfavourable narrative around Matawalle’s tenure as governor. He noted that while the current administration has focused on highlighting alleged financial mismanagement and governance failures during Matawalle’s leadership, these actions are part of a broader strategy to discredit the minister ahead of the next election cycle.

“It is clear that the fear of 2027 is driving the PDP and Governor Dauda Lawal to fight Matawalle tooth and nail. They know his political strength and the loyalty he commands among Zamfara’s electorate. This is why they have resorted to cheap propaganda, baseless allegations, and unfounded accusations to tarnish his name,” Gusau said.

The group argued that rather than prioritising governance and addressing the security challenges plaguing the state, Governor Lawal’s administration has expended significant energy on undermining its predecessor.

Zamfara State has witnessed heightened political rivalry since the 2023 elections, which saw Governor Dauda Lawal of the PDP defeat Matawalle of the All Progressives Congress (APC). Since then, there have been allegations and counter-allegations between both camps.

The PDP-led government has accused Matawalle of leaving behind a financial mess, including unpaid salaries and uncompleted projects. Meanwhile, APC loyalists have criticised Governor Lawal for failing to fulfill campaign promises and allegedly using the state’s resources to settle political scores.

Gusau emphasised that such political distractions only serve to deepen divisions in Zamfara. “The people of Zamfara are watching and will not be swayed by desperate political tactics. The focus should be on improving security, education, healthcare, and other pressing issues, not on settling political scores,” he said.

The Youth for Emancipation of Zamfara reaffirmed its support for Matawalle, describing him as a leader committed to the state’s development. The group cited various initiatives launched during Matawalle’s tenure, including efforts to tackle insecurity and improve infrastructure.

“Zamfara State witnessed significant progress under Matawalle. While he may not have achieved everything due to his inherited challenges, his genuine efforts cannot be denied. The current administration should build on these foundations instead of wasting time on vendettas,” Gusau remarked.

The group also called on Matawalle to remain steadfast and focused on his responsibilities as Minister of State for Defense, where he has been actively involved in addressing the nation’s security challenges.

Gusau urged political actors in Zamfara to prioritise unity and development over partisan rivalries. He expressed concern that the state’s fragile security situation could worsen if political tensions are not managed properly.

“Zamfara needs peace, not political chaos. Both the PDP and APC must put the people’s interests above their own. The time for politicking is over; now is the time for governance,” he said.

He further called on citizens to remain vigilant and resist attempts to manipulate public opinion through misinformation.

Efforts to get a response from the PDP and Governor Dauda Lawal’s spokesperson were unsuccessful at the time of filing this report. However, the administration has consistently defended its actions as necessary steps to ensure accountability and restore good governance in the state.

In previous statements, Governor Lawal accused Matawalle’s administration of diverting public funds and failing to adequately address the state’s insecurity. The governor has also maintained that his government is focused on rebuilding trust with the people and repositioning Zamfara for sustainable development.

As 2027 approaches, the political landscape in Zamfara State appears increasingly polarised. Analysts believe the rivalry between Matawalle and Governor Lawal could shape the state’s political dynamics in the coming years.

For now, the Youth for Emancipation of Zamfara has vowed to continue supporting Matawalle and countering what it describes as attempts to undermine his legacy and prospects.

“We are ready to defend the truth and expose the lies being spread against Matawalle. The people of Zamfara deserve leaders who prioritise their welfare, not politicians who thrive on division and propaganda,” Gusau concluded.