Group Dismisses Allegations Against Matawalle as Fabricated, Politically Motivated
Oru Leonard
The United Front for Religious Tolerance in Nigeria has dismissed as false and provocative recent allegations accusing the Minister of State for Defence, Dr. Bello Mohammed Matawalle, of attempting to bribe a United States official to suppress reports on Nigeria’s security situation.
The group described the claims, reportedly linked to statements made by a member of the Florida House of Representatives, Kimberly Daniels, during a Facebook live session, as baseless and lacking any credible evidence.
In a statement signed by Barrister Okie Okechukwu, the group maintained that the Minister has never engaged in any form of bribery or misconduct, stressing that the allegations do not reflect his record in public service.
It warned that the circulation of such unverified claims could worsen tensions at a time Nigeria is grappling with complex security challenges, noting that narratives suggesting attempts to manipulate international opinion are misleading and dangerous.
The group reiterated that insecurity in Nigeria affects all citizens regardless of religion or region, emphasizing that the crisis should not be politicized or framed along sectarian lines.
While acknowledging the importance of international engagement, the statement cautioned against what it described as attempts to undermine Nigeria’s sovereignty through sensational claims and public commentary, urging that concerns be addressed through proper diplomatic and investigative channels.
It further alleged that the claims against the Minister may be driven by political interests, pointing to his loyalty to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and his growing influence in national and state politics as possible reasons for the attacks.
Describing the allegations as malicious and unfounded, the group also criticized Kimberly Daniels’ remarks as inappropriate, urging foreign actors to avoid making inflammatory statements on Nigeria’s internal affairs.
The group called on the public and media to exercise restraint, verify information before dissemination, and avoid amplifying narratives capable of deepening divisions or distracting from efforts to restore peace and stability across the country.
