A coalition of Nigerian civil society organisations, operating under the banner of the Coalition of Nigeria Civil Societies Against Terrorism, has urged President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to redeploy the Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle, describing the move as necessary in the overriding interest of national security.
The appeal was made on Wednesday, the 7th of January, 2026, during a press conference in Abuja, where the coalition raised concerns about waning public confidence in Nigeria’s ongoing fight against terrorism and banditry.
According to the group, the call followed recommendations contained in an assessment report on Nigeria’s counter-terrorism efforts, presented by the United World Congress of Diplomats in collaboration with the International Institute of Experts on Political Economy and Administration.
Addressing journalists at the briefing, the coalition’s Convener, Marvin Ibem, Esq., said the fears being expressed by Nigerians were not directed at the military itself, but at perceived internal weaknesses that could undermine security operations.
“Across the country, Nigerians continue to express fear, not because they doubt the resolve of the Armed Forces, but because they are worried that internal weaknesses could compromise operational success,” Ibem said.
He argued that the continued presence of the Minister of State for Defence in the ministry had become a source of public anxiety, adding that a redeployment would go a long way in restoring trust and confidence in the system.
“In our view, his redeployment is long overdue. Nigerians are not calling for redeployment out of malice; they are speaking out because they do not want anything to happen to the ongoing war against terrorism,” he stated.
Ibem stressed that the coalition’s position was driven by caution and national interest rather than political considerations, noting that persistent allegations circulating in the public space had created what he described as a dangerous trust deficit.
“Whether proven or not, such narratives have created a trust deficit that is dangerous in a sensitive security environment. In counter-terrorism operations, confidence, secrecy, and absolute loyalty to strategy are non-negotiable,” he said.
The coalition warned that in security matters, perception alone can be damaging, insisting that trust must not only exist but must also be clearly seen to exist.
“Nigeria cannot afford a situation where operational details are perceived to be vulnerable to leaks, especially at a time when terrorists and bandits are being decisively pressured,” Ibem added.
Despite its concerns, the group reaffirmed its support for President Tinubu, praising his determination and political will in tackling insecurity nationwide.
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“President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has demonstrated resolve, political courage, and seriousness in confronting terrorism and banditry. Terrorism is not a partisan issue; it is a national threat,” the convener said.
The coalition emphasized that its call was neither personal nor political, but purely aimed at strengthening national security.
“Redeploying Bello Matawalle to another ministry will not amount to condemnation; rather, it will be a preventive, confidence-building decision that strengthens the war effort,” Ibem said.
The group concluded by urging the President to act on the recommendation, insulate the Defence Ministry from suspicion, and entrust sensitive security responsibilities to officials whose credibility is beyond question.