'Remove Matawalle As Defence Minister' – US Lawmaker Tells Tinubu

‘Remove Matawalle As Defence Minister’ – US Lawmaker Tells Tinubu
aster attacks highlight growing gap between claims and reality
Daniels calls for probe and international pressure on Nigeria

A United States lawmaker, Kimberly Daniels, has called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to redeploy or remove the Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle, over concerns about Nigeria’s worsening security situation.

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EKO HOT BLOG reports that Daniels made the call in a statement posted on her Facebook page, citing findings from a recent security assessment report. Her intervention follows renewed attacks in parts of the North Central and North West regions during the 2026 Easter period, which reportedly led to multiple casualties in Plateau, Kaduna and Nasarawa states.

According to her, the report revealed a widening gap between official assurances and the realities faced by communities affected by violence. She noted that testimonies from local leaders and survivors pointed to persistent insecurity, including attacks on religious gatherings during Palm Sunday and Easter celebrations.

Daniels said the findings raised serious concerns about Matawalle’s continued stay in office, citing questions around his experience and allegations linked to his tenure as governor of Zamfara State.

“To the Government of Nigeria, the results of the assessment urge President Tinubu to look inward and remove elements that compromise national security,” she said.

“Specifically, immediate leadership review. The removal or redeployment of Minister Bello Matawalle to restore the integrity of the defence ministry.”

She also called for a transparent investigation into allegations of high level complicity in banditry, alongside improved protection for vulnerable communities.

“The greatest form of terrorism a person can experience is terror that comes from homegrown familiar enemies,” Daniels said.

The lawmaker further urged the United States and other international partners to apply diplomatic pressure on Nigeria to ensure accountability.

Daniels disclosed that House Resolution 761, which supports redesignating Nigeria as a country of particular concern over religious freedom, has received bipartisan backing in the Florida legislature, adding that her position was influenced by concerns raised by Nigerians.