From Umar Danladi Ado, Sokoto
The immediate past Governor of Zamfara State and current Minister of State for Defence, Dr. Bello Mohammed Matawalle, MON, has reassured the people of Zamfara State and other communities affected by banditry of the Federal Government’s continued determination to eradicate banditry and other forms of criminality across the country.
In a statement issued on Sunday, Matawalle gave the assurance in Kaduna on Saturday during an interactive meeting with former members of the Zamfara State House of Assembly, former cabinet members, Special Advisers and other political associates who served under his administration between 2019 and 2023.
The meeting provided an opportunity for participants to deliberate on several important issues, with security, political mobilisation and the development of Zamfara State taking centre stage.
Speaking at the meeting, the Minister said the protection of lives and property remained the foremost responsibility of any serious government.
He added that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu had intensified efforts to build bridges of peace, unity and political cohesion across the country.
He said President Tinubu would not overlook issues of insecurity, economic development, peace and national unity despite ongoing political activities and other challenges.
“Security of lives and property is the major concern of every serious government in any country. That is why the APC-led administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has focused strongly on securing the nation,” Matawalle maintained.
Matawalle noted that the President’s commitment to national security was evident in his frequent engagements and consultations on security matters, both within and outside the country.
He urged the gathering to mobilise support for the Tinubu Again Movement, charging them to reach out to communities across Zamfara State and beyond to galvanise support for President Tinubu’s re-election bid in 2027.
Earlier, leaders of the various groups represented at the meeting commended Matawalle for maintaining what they described as a formidable political structure since his tenure as Executive Governor of Zamfara State from 2019 to 2023.
They noted that despite his current national assignment as a member of the Federal Executive Council, Matawalle had continued to command the loyalty and support of a significant number of people across Zamfara State.
The leaders pledged their total support and loyalty to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s renewed efforts, saying that the success of the President would also translate into their own success.
They further expressed their readiness to promote President Tinubu and showcase Matawalle’s leadership, describing him as a leader who had demonstrated concern for the welfare and aspirations of his supporters.