The Northern Youths Awareness (NYA) group has accused Zamfara State Governor, Dauda Lawal, of harboring concerns about the political influence of Minister of State for Defense, Bello Matawalle, ahead of the 2027 general elections.
In a statement released on Wednesday by Mustepha Gaya, the NYA’s National Coordinator, the group alleged that Governor Lawal feels threatened by Matawalle’s growing prominence in the region and his loyalty to President Bola Tinubu.
Gaya suggested that Lawal, a prominent figure within the opposition People’s Democratic Party (PDP), is unsettled by Matawalle’s increasing political clout in Northern Nigeria, which he sees as a challenge to the PDP’s electoral goals for 2027.
“Matawalle’s close ties with President Tinubu have caused unease for Lawal, who is now being used by the opposition to stir up distractions in Zamfara,” Gaya claimed.
The NYA further alleged that Governor Lawal’s position is weakened by accusations linking him to illegal mining activities in Zamfara. These allegations arose following the arrest of bandit leader Bashir Hadejia, who reportedly implicated the governor in illegal mining operations. Hadejia also claimed Lawal orchestrated protests against Tinubu’s administration.
Adding to Lawal’s difficulties, Gaya noted, are old accusations from his tenure as Managing Director of First Bank, with critics accusing him of engaging in illicit financial activities. He is also said to have been involved in questionable transactions with former Petroleum Minister Alison Diezani.
“Matawalle is aware of Lawal’s secrets, which explains why the governor is waging media campaigns to discredit him,” Gaya added. “But trying to silence Matawalle won’t solve his problems.”
Gaya advised Lawal to refrain from prioritizing politics over the safety and security of the people of Zamfara, emphasizing that the welfare of the state’s citizens should come first.
Meanwhile, Matawalle has distanced himself from the ongoing violence in Zamfara and reaffirmed his commitment to President Tinubu’s administration. The Minister has publicly declared his innocence on the Holy Qur’an, maintaining that his focus remains on supporting the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) and securing the party’s dominance in the North.
