NANS Calls for Matawalle’s Sack over Alleged Links to Banditry

The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has called for the immediate removal of the Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle, following allegations linking him to banditry, describing the claims as disturbing and a serious threat to national security.

The student body made the call in a statement issued on Monday and signed by the President of the Senate of NANS Headquarters, Usman Adamu Nagwaza. NANS said Nigerians deserved transparency and accountability over the allegations, stressing that the government must act decisively to protect public trust.

According to the association, it was “shocked and appalled” by the allegations surrounding Matawalle and his alleged relationship with bandits, noting that such claims constituted a grave breach of trust and raised serious concerns about his integrity and suitability to remain in office.

NANS stated that the allegations were particularly troubling given Matawalle’s position as a senior government official charged with safeguarding the nation against security threats. The group warned that any form of complicity with bandits undermines ongoing efforts to combat insecurity across the country.

“His alleged relationship with bandits is a betrayal of the trust reposed in him by the Nigerian people and weakens the government’s fight against insecurity,” the statement read.

The association demanded that Matawalle be relieved of his duties with immediate effect to allow for a thorough and unhindered investigation. It argued that his continued stay in office could compromise the probe and further erode public confidence in the government’s commitment to national security.

NANS further claimed that the alleged relationship between the minister and bandits had emboldened criminal elements, leading to increased violence and the displacement of innocent citizens. It said Matawalle’s removal was necessary to prevent further harm and restore confidence in governance.

The student body also urged President Bola Tinubu to intervene promptly, warning that Nigerians would not tolerate corruption or any form of collaboration with terrorists.

“It is essential that the government takes decisive action to address these allegations,” NANS said, emphasising that the rule of law must prevail.

NANS issued a one-week ultimatum for Matawalle’s removal, threatening to mobilise students nationwide to block major highways across the states if its demand was not met, adding that it would not remain silent in the face of perceived government inaction or complicity.