The Niger Delta Youth Congress (NDYC) has issued a statement condemning recent protests and coordinated efforts aimed at discrediting the Honourable Minister of State for Defence, Bello Mohammed Matawalle. The organization claims these actions are politically motivated attempts to undermine the credibility of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration.
According to NDYC, these protests—led by groups of aggrieved youths and women from Zamfara State and staged at the Department of State Services headquarters in Abuja—falsely accuse Minister Matawalle of contributing to rising insecurity. NDYC asserts that these claims, which attempt to link the Minister’s previous tenure as Zamfara’s governor with banditry, are baseless and intended to mislead the public.
In their statement, the NDYC attributes these protests to factions within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), alleging that certain political actors are using misinformation to create division and disrupt governance. NDYC specifically notes the involvement of Zamfara State Governor Dauda Lawal, suggesting his role in orchestrating these protests against the Minister, who they describe as a steadfast ally of President Tinubu and an advocate for peace and security.
The NDYC expressed strong support for Minister Matawalle, applauding his efforts to promote stability and community welfare in Northern Nigeria. They view his continued position in President Tinubu’s administration as a testament to his contributions to Nigeria’s security framework. NDYC urged the Minister to stay committed to addressing security challenges and combating banditry, including recent activity from groups such as Lakurawa.
Furthermore, NDYC called on youth across the Niger Delta and Northern Nigeria to critically assess the motives behind these protests and prioritize unity over politically motivated divisions. They encouraged young Nigerians to stand together against misinformation and factional interests that could compromise national stability.
Reiterating their support for Minister Matawalle, the NDYC affirmed its readiness to mobilize in defense of leaders dedicated to advancing Nigeria’s welfare. They emphasized the need to maintain peace, progress, and unity in the face of efforts to destabilize the nation.