Matawalle Slams NEF as ‘Political Paperweight’ Over Tinubu Remarks

Bello Matawalle, the Minister of State for Defence, has lashed out at the Northern Elders Forum (NEF), labeling them as a “political paperweight.”

This came in response to a statement made by Abdul-Azeez Suleiman, the spokesperson of the forum, who claimed that the north made a mistake by voting for President Bola Tinubu in the 2023 elections.

Matawalle expressed his disappointment in NEF, stating that the group is more of a political burden to northerners and is seeking to undermine Tinubu’s victory.

He questioned the group’s intentions, suggesting that they are attempting to erode other people’s rights to be recognized or made relevant in the political landscape.

Despite the failure of their sponsored candidates in the 2023 general elections, the minister accused NEF of having an overbearing attitude on issues that affect political unity and cohesion.

The minister went on to criticize the NEF for not seeking an audience with President Tinubu to discuss issues affecting the northern region, despite the numerous challenges facing the north.

He pointed out that the group has not visited any of the ministers dealing with critical issues such as security, agriculture, water resources, education, health, and budget, or any head of security agencies in the country to gain first-hand knowledge of government programs and actions.

Matawalle further accused the Northern Elders Forum of refusing to accept reality and living in a delusion.

He emphasized that the group has not offered any positive idea or thought about the future of Northern Nigeria or, indeed, of Nigeria and its unity and togetherness.

This exchange highlights the ongoing political tensions in Nigeria following the 2023 general elections and raises questions about the role of interest groups in shaping public opinion and political discourse.

As Nigeria continues to grapple with various challenges, it remains to be seen how the government will address these issues and work towards greater unity and cohesion in the country.