Defence minister slams Atiku over alleged US lobbying

The Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle, has accused former Vice President Atiku Abubakar of attempting to internationalise Nigeria’s political contest, warning opposition politicians against actions that could undermine the country’s democratic institutions ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Matawalle, in a statement issued on Friday by his Personal Assistant on Media, Ahmad Dan-Wudil, condemned reports alleging that Atiku engaged a United States lobbying firm to circulate decades-old documents relating to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

The minister described the alleged move as a desperate bid to discredit a constitutionally elected government, insisting that Nigeria’s democratic mandate could neither be overturned nor influenced by foreign interests.

He urged opposition leaders to embrace constructive politics instead of what he called attempts to damage the country’s image on the international stage.

“Rather than seeking to tarnish Nigeria’s image abroad and undermine the Presidency, opposition leaders should channel their energy towards supporting government efforts to tackle insecurity, strengthen national unity and improve the welfare of Nigerians,” Matawalle said.

He maintained that while political disagreements were a normal feature of democracy, they should not come at the expense of Nigeria’s sovereignty and international reputation.

“The Presidency is a symbol of our national sovereignty and must be respected irrespective of political affiliation. No foreign government or lobbying firm will determine Nigeria’s democratic choices or alter the mandate freely given by Nigerians. Our political differences must never come at the expense of our country’s image and collective interest,” he added.

Matawalle also claimed that the Tinubu administration was earning growing international recognition for its security efforts and foreign engagements.

He cited recent commendation from former United States President Donald Trump on Nigeria’s security cooperation and anti-terrorism efforts, saying the development reflected increasing global confidence in the administration.

“Such international recognition reflects the growing confidence in Nigeria’s efforts under President Tinubu and should encourage all patriotic citizens to work together rather than promote divisive narratives abroad,” he said.

The minister dismissed what he described as campaigns of falsehood against the government, warning that such efforts would not succeed.

“Promoting propaganda and hatred against a government supported by the goodwill of the people will not affect its survival and progress. Rather, it will backfire on those sponsoring such utterances,” he said.

He added, “Those thinking that the use of lies and mischief can bring down President Tinubu’s government are jokers, because the country belongs to the people.”

Matawalle called on opposition politicians to pursue issue-based politics by presenting alternative policies rather than engaging in actions capable of escalating political tension.

“Nigeria belongs to all of us, and every political actor has a responsibility to protect the country’s unity, stability and international reputation,” he said.