The Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle, has criticized reports alleging that some opposition politicians are seeking foreign assistance in their political campaign against President Bola Tinubu, insisting that Nigeria’s democratic choices can only be determined by its citizens through constitutional processes.
According to a report by Daily Post published on Friday, July 24, 2026, Matawalle made the remarks in a statement issued by his Personal Assistant on Media, Ahmad Dan Wudil. In the statement, the minister urged political leaders to place Nigeria’s national interest above partisan politics and avoid actions that could harm the country’s international image.
Matawalle acknowledged that opposition parties have a constitutional right to criticize the policies and decisions of the government. However, he argued that political disagreements should remain within the framework of democratic engagement and should not be pursued in ways that undermine confidence in Nigeria’s institutions or portray the country negatively before the international community.
His comments followed reports alleging that former Vice President Atiku Abubakar engaged a foreign lobbying firm to circulate previously released documents relating to President Tinubu in the United States.
Reacting to the reports, Matawalle described the alleged development as regrettable and said taking domestic political disputes to foreign countries does little to strengthen Nigeria’s democracy or address the challenges facing its citizens.
According to the minister, political competition should be centered on presenting ideas and policies capable of improving the lives of Nigerians rather than seeking external involvement in the country’s internal political affairs.
He urged opposition leaders to channel their efforts toward offering constructive solutions to national issues, including security, economic development, national unity, and the welfare of citizens.
Matawalle also emphasized the importance of respecting the office of the President, arguing that the presidency represents Nigeria’s sovereignty, unity, and democratic authority regardless of which political party is in power.
He maintained that the office should be protected from actions capable of diminishing its integrity or undermining the country’s democratic institutions.
“No foreign government or lobbying firm will determine Nigeria’s democratic choices or overturn the mandate freely bestowed on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu by the Nigerian electorate,” Matawalle said.
The minister further stated that Nigeria’s political future must remain the exclusive responsibility of its citizens, insisting that any change in leadership should occur only through constitutional procedures and credible electoral processes.
According to him, the country’s democratic system provides legitimate avenues for political contest, making external intervention unnecessary and inconsistent with Nigeria’s sovereignty.
Matawalle also referred to recent remarks attributed to United States President Donald Trump, who reportedly commended President Tinubu’s leadership, particularly in the areas of security cooperation and counterterrorism.
He argued that such comments reflected growing international confidence in Nigeria’s efforts to address security challenges and strengthen cooperation with global partners.
The minister said the Federal Government remains committed to implementing policies aimed at improving national security, promoting peace, and strengthening democratic governance.
He also warned that misinformation and what he described as politically motivated allegations would not distract the administration from pursuing its programmes and policy objectives.
According to Matawalle, political parties should focus on presenting practical alternatives that allow voters to evaluate competing visions for the country’s future instead of engaging in actions that could damage Nigeria’s international reputation.
He stressed that constructive opposition plays an important role in any democracy but argued that such engagement should be guided by patriotism and respect for the nation’s institutions.
The minister further called on political stakeholders to work together in addressing issues affecting the country, including insecurity, national unity, and economic development.
He said cooperation among political leaders is essential to preserving peace and stability while ensuring that Nigeria continues to strengthen its democratic institutions ahead of future elections.
Matawalle also urged Nigerians to remain confident in the country’s democratic process, reiterating that leadership decisions should be made by the electorate through free and constitutional elections.
He maintained that the government would continue to prioritize efforts aimed at combating insecurity, strengthening national cohesion, and protecting Nigeria’s image on the global stage.
The minister concluded by encouraging opposition parties to continue participating in democratic debate through policy-based engagement while supporting initiatives that promote peace, national unity, and sustainable development.
His remarks come as political activities continue to intensify ahead of the 2027 general elections, with parties and political figures positioning themselves for what is expected to be a closely watched electoral contest.
