The Arewa Concerned Citizens of Nigeria has declared that Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle, has been vindicated after notorious terrorist leader Bello Turji denied receiving any form of sponsorship from anyone, including Matawalle.
Turji, who reportedly fled Zamfara due to intensified military operations against terrorist groups in the region, laid out conditions for restoring peace in Zamfara.
According to him, an end to attacks by security forces and vigilante groups on the Fulani population is crucial for peace in the state.
In a video that surfaced on Monday, Turji said, “It was during the administration of Yerima that the government sold off the grazing reserves and legalized the killing of the Fulanis. When Mahmoud Shinkafi came into power, he tried unsuccessfully to address the problem. Abdulaziz Yari empowered the vigilantes, but we are still struggling.”
Responding to the viral video, Comrade Mansur Abubakar, National Coordinator of the Arewa Concerned Citizens of Nigeria, issued a statement on Monday affirming that Matawalle’s approach to addressing the longstanding issues of insecurity has been one of sincerity and action.
“We must acknowledge the deeply rooted issues of insecurity and injustice that have plagued us for years,” Abubakar said. “From the administration of Yerima, which led to the sale of grazing reserves and legalized violence against the Fulani community, to subsequent administrations that struggled to find lasting solutions, it is clear we needed a leader with vision and determination.”
He emphasized that Matawalle has proven to be such a leader, engaging with stakeholders and striving for peace through dialogue and decisive measures. Unlike previous leaders who empowered vigilantes without tackling the underlying issues, Matawalle has sought sustainable solutions to bring peace and foster unity among all communities.
“His administration’s efforts to bridge gaps and address historical grievances show his dedication to building a future where every citizen feels safe and respected. Governor Matawalle stands as a beacon of hope, leading us toward a more peaceful and united Zamfara,” Abubakar added.
“Let us stand with him, support his vision, and continue to move forward under his strong, compassionate leadership,” he said.
