War on terror: Diplomatic group back Tinubu,  calls for Matawalle’s redeployment

The United World Congress of Diplomats (UN-WCD), working with the International Institute of Experts on Political Economy and Administration (IIEPEA), has thrown its weight behind President Bola  Tinubu’s security approach while calling for the immediate redeployment of the Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle.

The diplomats made the demand on Monday in Abuja during a press briefing, where they argued that Matawalle’s continued presence in the defence ministry constitutes what they described as “perceived internal obstacles” to the fight against terrorism and banditry.

Their position was outlined during the presentation of an Assessment Report on the Ongoing War Against Terrorism in Nigeria.

Presenting the report, UN-WCD Secretary-General, H.E. Amb. Prof. Tunji John Asaolu, commended the strengthening military cooperation between Nigeria and the United States, noting that joint operations have been marked by precision, discipline and effectiveness.

According to Asaolu, findings from the assessment revealed that despite the scale of recent joint military operations, no civilian casualties were recorded, a development he said reflects professionalism and compliance with international rules of engagement.

“We commend the United States military and the Nigerian Ministry of Defence for the progress recorded so far in degrading terrorist networks,” he said, adding that the partnership has weakened insurgent strongholds across several regions.

However, Asaolu cautioned that recurring attacks indicate that terrorism has not been completely eliminated.

He pointed to the recent bandit attack at Kasuwan-Daji in Niger State, where more than 30 people were reportedly killed, as evidence that Nigeria’s security framework still requires urgent adjustment.

According to him, the incident highlights the necessity for a “surgical cleansing” of the defence architecture, especially regarding officials whose continued roles attract public suspicion or operational concerns.

While warning against destabilising scenarios similar to the recent crisis in Venezuela—where a sitting president was arrested during a full-scale military operation allegedly involving the United States—Asaolu maintained that President Tinubu has demonstrated uncommon political resolve in confronting insecurity.

“Our findings show clearly that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has gone beyond expectations in confronting terrorism. What remains is to remove internal bottlenecks that could undermine his efforts,” he said.

Central to the diplomats’ recommendations was a call for the redeployment of Bello Matawalle from the Ministry of Defence, which they described as essential to restoring public confidence and coherence in the war against terrorism.

They cited persistent credibility concerns, including allegations of links with bandits dating back to Matawalle’s tenure as Governor of Zamfara State, warning that retaining an official under such scrutiny weakens the moral authority of the security campaign.

The group further observed that Matawalle’s continued stay in the defence ministry could undermine the seriousness signaled by recent military leadership changes, including the appointment of General Christopher Musa as Chief of Defence Staff.

Other concerns raised included allegations by former associates, claims of shielding bandit leaders, facilitation of ransom payments, and public comments perceived as dismissive of victims. The diplomats said these issues have contributed to growing public anger and mistrust.

UN-WCD also noted that Matawalle’s limited security background, combined with mounting calls for his removal from clerics and respected commentators, has drawn unwanted international attention to Nigeria’s defence leadership.

“The war against terrorism cannot be fought with credibility gaps at the top,” Asaolu said. “Allowing officials facing serious allegations to remain in sensitive positions risks sabotaging public trust and operational effectiveness.”

The diplomatic body concluded by urging President Tinubu to view Matawalle’s redeployment not as punishment, but as a decisive governance step needed to strengthen the security chain, reassure Nigerians, and accelerate victory against terrorism.

He said, “Public sentiment against banditry is high, and the resurfacing of dismissive comments made by Mr. Mutawalle reflects a lack of empathy towards thousands of victims. His remarks alienate those affected and can severely damage the government’s credibility in addressing security Challenges , one of the reasons why the Christian genocide is more pronounced.

“The integrity of Nigeria’s security apparatus is crucial. Allowing individuals under serious scrutiny to remain in leadership roles can compromise institutional efficacy and credibility. A change in leadership is vital to restore faith and effectiveness within the defence ministry.

“In conclusion, I urge President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to consider these points seriously. The redeployment of Bello Mutawalle from the Ministry of Defense is not merely a matter of personnel; it is a critical step toward reaffirming our commitment to accountability, integrity, and the effective governance essential for our national security.”