A coalition of Nigerian civil society organisations under the banner of the Coalition of Nigeria Civil Societies Against Terrorism has appealed to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to redeploy the Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle, in the interest of national security.
The coalition made the appeal on Wednesday during a press conference in Abuja, citing concerns over public confidence in the ongoing war against terrorism and banditry.
According to the group, the call followed recommendations contained in an assessment report on Nigeria’s counter-terrorism efforts presented by the United World Congress of Diplomats in collaboration with the International Institute of Experts on Political Economy and Administration.
Speaking at the press conference, the Convener of the coalition, Marvin Ibem, Esq., said Nigerians’ fears were not directed at the military but at potential internal weaknesses that could undermine operations.
“Across the country, Nigerians continue to express fear, not because they doubt the resolve of the Armed Forces, but because they are worried that internal weaknesses could compromise operational success,” Ibem said.
He noted that the continued stay of the Minister of State for Defence in the Defence Ministry had become a source of public anxiety, adding that redeployment would help restore confidence in the system.
“In our view, his redeployment is long overdue. Nigerians are not calling for redeployment out of malice; they are speaking out because they do not want anything to happen to the ongoing war against terrorism,” he stated.
Ibem said the coalition’s position was guided by prudence rather than politics, stressing that persistent allegations in the public domain had created what he described as a dangerous trust deficit.
“Whether proven or not, such narratives have created a trust deficit that is dangerous in a sensitive security environment. In counter-terrorism operations, confidence, secrecy, and absolute loyalty to strategy are non-negotiable,” he said.
The coalition warned that in security matters, perception alone could be damaging, arguing that trust must not only exist but must also be visible.
“Nigeria cannot afford a situation where operational details are perceived to be vulnerable to leaks, especially at a time when terrorists and bandits are being decisively pressured,” Ibem added.
The group, however, reaffirmed its support for President Tinubu, commending his resolve and political will in addressing insecurity across the country.
“President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has demonstrated resolve, political courage, and seriousness in confronting terrorism and banditry. Terrorism is not a partisan issue; it is a national threat,” the convener said.
The coalition emphasised that its call was not personal or political, but purely in the interest of national security.
“Redeploying Bello Matawalle to another ministry will not amount to condemnation; rather, it will be a preventive, confidence-building decision that strengthens the war effort,” Ibem said.
The group urged the President to act on the redeployment recommendation, insulate the Defence Ministry from suspicion, and entrust sensitive security responsibilities to officials whose credibility is beyond question.