I respectfully write to draw your attention to the urgent need to distinguish between elected officials and political appointees, particularly in matters relating to national security and the safety of citizens.
The Governor of Zamfara State was duly elected by the people to serve and lead them. In contrast, Hon. Bello Matawalle was appointed by your administration as Minister of Defence. With all due respect, if your government genuinely has the best interests of the people of Zamfara at heart, the state should not be placed at the mercy of one political appointee.
It is well known that Governor Lawal and Hon. Matawalle are political rivals who cannot collaborate effectively, having fiercely opposed each other in the 2023 elections. Based on this fact, cooperation on matters of security is highly improbable.
We respectfully appeal to Your Excellency to consider reassigning Hon. Matawalle to a non-security-related ministry, and appoint a qualified professional with military or security experience to lead the Ministry of Defence. This decision would foster effective coordination with the state government and better serve the people of Zamfara.
Hon. Matawalle lacks relevant experience in the military, police, or other security services. If the appointment is politically motivated, a less sensitive portfolio—such as Finance or another revenue-generating agency—would be more appropriate and could help save lives.
Those advocating for a state of emergency should adhere to constitutional processes and avoid politicizing security issues.
Zamfara is in crisis. Lives are lost daily. We urge immediate action.
Sincerely,
Hon. Kabiru Musa Agege
PDP Zonal Vice Chairman (Central), Zamfara
