The Arewa Concerned Citizens of Nigeria has stated that God has vindicated the Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle, after notorious terrorism kingpin Bello Turji said that nobody, including Matawalle, is sponsoring them.
Mr. Turji, who is believed to have fled Zamfara after the military intensified their onslaught against terrorist gangs in the state, gave conditions for peace in Zamfara.
He said peace would return to the state if security agents and vigilante groups stopped attacking and killing Fulanis in Zamfara and other places.
He made these statements in a viral video released on Monday.
“It was during the administration of Yerima that the government sold off the grazing reserves and legalized the killing of the Fulanis. When Mahmoud Shinkafi came into power, he tried unsuccessfully to address the problem. Abdulaziz Yari empowered the vigilantes, but we are still struggling,” Mr. Turji said.
In a statement issued on Monday afternoon, the National Coordinator of the group, Comrade Mansur Abubakar, said, “We must acknowledge the deeply rooted issues of insecurity and injustice that have plagued us for years.
“From the administration of Yerima, which led to the sale of grazing reserves and legalized violence against the Fulani community, to subsequent administrations that struggled to find lasting solutions, it is clear we needed a leader with vision and determination.”
According to him, Governor Matawalle has proven to be that leader. He has approached the insecurity crisis with genuine intent, engaging stakeholders and seeking peace through dialogue and decisive action.
While previous leaders empowered vigilantes without fully addressing the root causes, Matawalle is working towards sustainable solutions that benefit all communities, fostering peace and mutual understanding.
“His administration’s efforts to bridge gaps and address historical grievances show his dedication to building a future where every citizen feels safe and respected.
“Governor Matawalle stands as a beacon of hope, leading us toward a more peaceful and united Zamfara. Let us stand with him, support his vision, and continue to move forward under his strong, compassionate leadership,” Mansur said.
