An orchestrated smear campaign against the Honourable Minister of State for Defence, Dr. Bello Muhammad Matawalle, has stirred up controversy.
A group of individuals, allegedly mobilized by Tijjani Ramallan, leader of APC Akida, gathered outside the DSS office in what critics call an attempt to undermine the minister’s reputation.
Reports suggest that government resources, including Zamfara State government buses, were used to transport these individuals to the protest site.
According to analysts, Ramallan, who has previously criticized President Bola Ahmed Tinubu during the campaign period, has consistently distanced himself from APC activities and is believed to be envious of Matawalle’s close ties to the President.
Critics accuse Ramallan of fostering instability by allegedly supporting criminal activities, though no formal charges have been made.
Sources close to the matter claim Ramallan is being manipulated by Governor Dauda Lawal to launch attacks against Dr. Matawalle.
This follows a previous smear campaign allegedly initiated by the Zamfara State government, which was subsequently halted by a court order. Now, they claim, APC Akida is being used as a vehicle to continue the agenda.
Observers argue that the people of Zamfara need stability and development, rather than political distractions and resources wasted on campaigns against Matawalle.