Groups Criticize Bwala’s Comments on Defence Ministers

The Arewa Youth Consultative Forum (AYCF) and the Yoruba Youth Council (YCC) have expressed strong disapproval of recent comments made by Daniel Bwala, a former aide to ex-Vice President Atiku Abubakar, regarding the security apparatus under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration.

Bwala suggested on his X handle that Defence Ministers Mohammed Badaru and Bello Matawalle might be dismissed due to a recent incident involving the seizure of Nigerian military armored vehicles by bandits in Zamfara State. This event reportedly led to a celebration by notorious bandit leader Bello Turji.

In response, AYCF President General Yerima Shettima and YCC leader Comrade Eric Oluwole criticized Bwala’s remarks as unfounded and a distraction from the pressing security challenges facing the region and the nation. They questioned Bwala’s motives, noting his previous opposition to Tinubu’s candidacy and support for Atiku Abubakar during the recent elections.

Shettima and Oluwole emphasized that Bwala’s sudden shift to critique the current administration raises concerns about his credibility and intentions. They urged political stakeholders to engage in constructive dialogue rather than baseless attacks on individuals working to address security issues in the North.

The groups commended the efforts of Ministers Badaru and Matawalle in tackling insecurity and warned against any attempts to undermine the administration’s initiatives. They called on Bwala to redirect his focus towards addressing his personal challenges rather than disparaging those striving to secure the region.

The AYCF further stressed the importance of unity and cooperation in addressing the security needs of the North and cautioned President Tinubu to be vigilant against individuals who might seek to undermine his administration.