Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle, has condemned former Minister of Transport, Rotimi Amaechi, accusing him of inciting unrest and inflaming tensions within the Nigerian public.
OsunDailyNG reported that Amaechi, in an interview with Igbere TV, criticized the lack of proactive responses from the populace, particularly the youth, regarding the rising cost of living.
Amaechi, who previously served as the governor of Rivers State, noted that he anticipated a surge of protests from young people demanding action against the deteriorating economic conditions.
However, in a statement issued by Ministry of Defence Spokesperson Henshaw Ogubike, Dr. Matawalle warned Amaechi against making “inflammatory remarks” that could undermine the nation’s peace and stability.
Matawalle said, “It is both reckless and irresponsible for a former public servant of Amaechi’s standing to incite Nigerians against their own government.
“At a time when President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is working tirelessly to address the challenges facing the nation through various reforms that are yielding results.
“It is absurd, preposterous and shameful for anyone to exploit the genuine situation of our citizens for selfish political gain.”
Reaffirming President Tinubu’s commitment to national peace and security, Matawalle warned that the government would not tolerate any attempts to destabilize the country through incitement.
“We will not allow anyone to fuel violence or manipulate the prevailing situation of our people.
“Let this serve as a final warning to Amaechi and his cohorts,” he said.
Matawalle also urged Amaechi to abandon divisive rhetoric and instead join forces with the government to advance Nigeria’s progress, stating, “It is expected that Amaechi joins hand with the Government to move the country forward, rather he chose to stay aside with myopic assertions.”
