Since Bello Matawalle was appointed as Minister of State for Defence in 2023, tension has been brewing with Dauda Lawal, the Governor of Zamfara State. Lawal’s unease stems from his narrow gubernatorial victory and the subsequent affirmation of that victory by the Election Petition Tribunal, which reinforced Matawalle’s significant political influence in the state.
Recognizing the challenge of maintaining control over Matawalle’s newfound authority, Lawal devised a plan following his unsuccessful attempts to link Matawalle to a cargo airport controversy. He sought to recruit former aides of Matawalle to gather information on his activities during his governorship, leading to the involvement of Bashir Hadejia.
The initial strategy aimed to undermine Matawalle’s accomplishments as governor from 2019 to 2023. However, this effort failed as the public acknowledged Matawalle’s positive legacies. With this approach falling flat, Lawal explored new avenues, reportedly collaborating with a former Jigawa Governor who is now the Minister of Defence. Together, they aimed to diminish Matawalle’s influence due to his favorable relationship with President Bola Tinubu.
Lawal found an ally in Jackson Ude, a journalist known for his controversial tactics and blackmailing activities. Ude has been involved in numerous legal battles with high-profile individuals, making him a potent ally for Lawal in their campaign against Matawalle. Their strategy involved portraying Matawalle as complicit in supporting bandits and terrorists that threaten the state.
Matawalle’s growing prominence and success in the Defence sector reportedly unsettled his co-minister, Mohammed Badaru Abubakar. The two ministers appeared to have contrasting styles, which led to visible tensions. While Matawalle engaged actively with military operations and troop morale, Badaru maintained a more withdrawn approach. Reports surfaced indicating that Badaru felt overshadowed by Matawalle and disappointed by his own appointment, believing he deserved a more prominent role.
Sources suggest that Badaru and Lawal are collaborating to undermine Matawalle, aiming to tarnish his reputation and achievements further. Allegations of Lawal’s connections with local terrorists have circulated, with claims that he has been protecting figures like Bello Turji, a notorious bandit leader. This protection allegedly extends to logistical support and information leaks regarding military operations, which has allowed Turji to operate with impunity.
The implications of these dynamics are concerning, as key stakeholders in Zamfara appear to be obstructing efforts to improve security in the region. Rather than supporting military operations, they reportedly provide intelligence to bandits, enabling ambushes against security forces. This behavior seems aimed at discrediting Matawalle and maintaining control over the lucrative mining sector in Zamfara.
The involvement of Bashir Hadejia and Badaru in this coalition represents a troubling escalation of a previously localized issue. Hadejia, with his background and knowledge of Matawalle’s strategies, has reportedly participated in efforts to sponsor anti-government protests, further reflecting the extent of their opposition to established authority.
The recruitment of Ude, a journalist operating outside the country, to spread misinformation against Matawalle underscores the coordinated effort to dominate public discourse with unverifiable claims. As these events unfold, they reveal a complex interplay of political ambition, criminal activity, and the struggle for control over key resources in Zamfara.
