the odua people’s assembly, opa, a key yoruba association, has expressed profound worry over recent claims that link the minister of state for defence, bello matawalle, to banditry.
the association declared that these disturbing allegations, which could severely damage national security and public trust, must be fully investigated and not ignored.
in a statement released by its chairman, mr richard olatunji kayode, the assembly warned that if these claims are not addressed, they could further undermine confidence in government institutions at a time when nigeria is struggling with widespread insecurity.
kayode pointed out that in a nation already afflicted by the problem of banditry, any suggestion that a senior government official may be collaborating with criminal elements is “alarming and unacceptable.”
the statement highlighted that such claims erode the public’s trust in government and raise serious questions about the integrity of those responsible for protecting the nation. it specifically referenced a recent video clip in which bello turji, a notorious bandit leader, was seen openly defending minister matawalle.
the opa views the implications of this alleged endorsement as “chilling,” suggesting the possibility of a concerning partnership between government officials and criminal groups, which undermines the efforts of law enforcement and the sacrifices of the military personnel.
the odua people’s assembly firmly believes that any form of association, whether direct or indirect, between public officials and banditry is a betrayal of the nigerian populace, especially those who have suffered from the devastating consequences of the insecurity.
the group demanded an immediate and exhaustive investigation into the allegations, urging the federal government to demonstrate its commitment to accountability, justice, and the rule of law.
opa issued a warning that a failure to take decisive action could encourage criminal elements and further destabilize communities that are already vulnerable.
as part of their demands, the assembly called for the immediate removal of matawalle from his position as minister of state for defence, viewing this step as necessary to restore public confidence and confirm the government’s resolve to fight banditry.
the group added that the perception of complicity, whether proven or not, is an unacceptable blot, particularly when the nation desperately needs unity and resolve against lawlessness.
furthermore, the opa urged the federal government to prioritize establishing a comprehensive framework for investigating these allegations, stressing that a transparent inquiry would not only address the specific claims against matawalle but also serve as a broader examination of the systemic issues that have allowed banditry to thrive in nigeria.
the assembly emphasized the necessity of an investigation conducted by an independent body to ensure impartiality and rebuild public confidence in the institutions.
as the nation navigates this critical period, the odua people’s assembly affirmed its unwavering commitment to advocating for the rights and security of the yoruba people and all nigerians, believing that the fight against banditry and insecurity must be a collective effort that moves beyond political and regional differences, as the nation’s future depends on confronting these challenges with courage, integrity, and a steadfast dedication to justice.
finally, the group called on all nigerians to remain alert and hold their leaders accountable, reiterating that public office holders must be held to the highest standards of transparency, integrity, and responsibility in the collective pursuit of a peaceful and prosperous nation.
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