Members of the National Forum of Former Legislators have passed a vote of confidence on the Minister of State for Defence, Bello Mohammed Matawalle, amid criticisms over his role in addressing insecurity.

The endorsement came during a solidarity visit to Matawalle in Abuja.

National Coordinator of the Forum, Rt Hon. Nnanna Igbokwe, said the visit was in support of Matawalle, describing him as a committed public servant backing President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s efforts to tackle banditry through non-kinetic approaches.

Also speaking, former Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives and BOT member of the Forum, Rt Hon. Babangida SM Nguroje, said Matawalle was being unfairly targeted by opposition figures ahead of the 2027 elections.

“You are doing well in your assignment. Nigerians expect even more from you,” Nguroje said, urging the minister to remain steadfast in advancing the Renewed Hope Agenda.