Matawalle Slams Amaechi for Inciting Violence: “Face the Full Force of the Law!”

Matawalle Slams Ex-Governor Amaechi for Inciting Violence: “Face the Full Force of the Law!”

Abuja, Nigeria – January 30, 2025 –

In a fiery denunciation that has ignited political tensions across Nigeria, the Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle, has vehemently condemned former Minister of Transportation and ex-Rivers Governor, Rotimi Amaechi, for allegedly making incendiary remarks aimed at destabilizing the nation’s peace and security.

Matawalle Condemns Amaechi’s “Reckless and Inciting” Remarks

Yesterday, Bello Matawalle issued a stern warning to Rotimi Amaechi, accusing the former minister of promoting a “politics of pull him down syndrome.” According to a statement released by Henshaw Ogubike, Director of Press and Public Relations at the Ministry of Defence, Amaechi allegedly urged Nigerian politicians to “steal, maim, and kill” to maintain their grip on power during a recent conference in Abuja.

“It is both reckless and dangerous for a former public office holder to make such inflammatory remarks,”…….No Responsible Leader Should Incite Violence

Matawalle decried Amaechi’s statements as not only insulting the intelligence of Nigerians but also as a dangerous attempt to radicalize the youth and foment political unrest. “It is both reckless and dangerous for a former public office holder to make such inflammatory remarks,” Matawalle stated. He emphasized that the current administration is dedicated to consolidating national unity and ensuring the security of all Nigerians.

Security Agencies on High Alert Against Incitement of Violence

Highlighting the gravity of the situation, Matawalle assured the public that security agencies are on high alert. “Any individual or group found inciting violence or attempting to destabilize this nation will face the full force of the law,” he warned. The Minister underscored that Nigeria is a sovereign nation governed by laws, rejecting any notion of seizing power through brute force or intimidation.

Call for Democratic Integrity and Peaceful Governance

Matawalle reiterated that power in Nigeria is earned through democratic processes, not through intimidation or lawlessness. He lauded President Bola Tinubu’s unwavering commitment to upholding peace, democratic values, and national security. “Having experienced both military rule and democratic governance, President Tinubu would never undermine the very democracy he has fought to uphold,” Matawalle affirmed.

Assurances of a Decisive Victory in the 2027 Presidential Election

Confident in the current administration’s achievements, Matawalle asserted that President Tinubu is poised to secure a decisive victory in the upcoming 2027 presidential election. He urged Nigerians to place their faith in Tinubu’s leadership and to disregard the “vituperations” of Amaechi and his associates, whom he described as “politically irrelevant” and out of touch with Nigeria’s current developmental realities.

Ministry of Defence to Monitor and Act Against Subversive Rhetoric

The Minister of Defence assured that the Ministry, in collaboration with relevant security agencies, will continue to monitor activities aimed at disrupting public peace. “We will ensure that anyone found culpable faces severe consequences,” Matawalle added, reinforcing the government’s stance against any form of subversive rhetoric that threatens national unity.

Public Reaction and Political Ramifications

The clash between Bello Matawalle and Rotimi Amaechi has sparked widespread debate among Nigerians, with supporters rallying behind their respective leaders. Amaechi’s alleged endorsement of violent tactics has been met with strong opposition from various political factions and civil society groups advocating for peaceful and democratic governance.

Future Implications for Nigeria’s Political Landscape

As Nigeria moves closer to the 2027 presidential elections, the confrontation between Matawalle and Amaechi underscores the critical need for maintaining integrity and peace within the nation’s political framework. The government’s firm stance against incitement of violence aims to preserve democratic values and ensure a stable environment conducive to national development.

 Upholding Democracy and National Security

Bello Matawalle’s resolute condemnation of Rotimi Amaechi’s alleged inflammatory remarks highlights the ongoing struggle to safeguard Nigeria’s democracy and security. As the nation navigates through political challenges, the commitment of leaders like Matawalle to uphold peace and democratic principles remains pivotal in shaping Nigeria’s future.