By Aminatu Yusuf Sani in Kaduna
Matawalle – Dec. 9, 2025
A public affairs analyst, Dr. Sani Abdullahi Shinkafi, has asked President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to scrap the office of the Minister of State for Defence and remove Bello Matawalle from the position, alleging that his continued stay poses a setback to the country’s security efforts.
In a letter addressed to the President, Shinkafi expressed concern over the recent escalation of terror attacks, especially in the Northern region, and questioned Matawalle’s capacity to contribute effectively to the coordination of the defence architecture.
He noted that the appointment of General Christopher Musa as Minister of Defence had strengthened public confidence, given his experience and record in managing complex security operations.
Shinkafi, however, maintained that retaining a Minister of State for Defence undermines efficiency in the Ministry, describing the arrangement as a structural hindrance to the fight against terrorism and banditry.
He referenced lingering allegations of corruption, mismanagement and poor leadership associated with Matawalle, arguing that they raise doubts about his suitability for the role.
The letter also faulted the current division of responsibilities within the Ministry, where the senior minister lacks full control over critical sectors such as the maritime domain, pension administration and the Defence Industries Corporation.
Shinkafi therefore urged President Tinubu to unify the Ministry of Defence under a single command structure, insisting that doing so would enhance coordination, eliminate internal friction and strengthen the nation’s response to its security challenges.
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