Stop Playing Politics! I Deserve This Job — Matawalle Fires Back On Defence Minister Debate

He described the criticisms as “malicious and politically driven,” stressing that Matawalle possesses the necessary competence, experience and leadership required for the role.

Speaking during a press briefing in Abuja on Friday, Dan Malikin refuted the argument that only military personnel should head the Defence Ministry, stating that such views ignore Nigeria’s democratic history. He noted that several former Defence Ministers — including Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, Mahmud Yayale Ahmed, and Adetokunbo Kayode — were civilians who managed the ministry effectively during challenging security periods.

Defending Matawalle’s tenure as Governor of Zamfara State, he highlighted the combined use of military action and dialogue to combat banditry, noting that neighbouring states later adopted similar strategies with noticeable success before detractors began misrepresenting his efforts.

Dan Malikin emphasized that insecurity should not be turned into a political tool, as it is a national concern requiring unity and genuine collaboration.

Responding to allegations about educational qualifications, he insisted such claims were baseless, noting that Matawalle met all constitutional requirements and was duly cleared by the Senate. He argued that leadership capacity and results matter more than certificates.

He accused political opponents of sponsoring falsehoods due to Matawalle’s rising national profile and said the clarification was necessary to ensure Nigerians are not misled by deliberate misinformation.