The Zamfara State chapter of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) has strongly criticized the Minister of State for Defense, Bello Matawalle, over his support for a state of emergency in Rivers State. The party described his stance as hypocritical, given his own track record as a former governor of Zamfara State.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, the Zamfara PDP accused Matawalle of endorsing actions that undermine democracy while failing to acknowledge his own undemocratic practices during his tenure as governor. The party recalled how Matawalle, during his administration, dismissed elected local government officials, demolished public properties such as Gusau Hotel and Farida Hospital, and made several policy decisions that negatively affected governance in Zamfara State.
The PDP argued that Matawalle’s justification for an emergency rule in Rivers State is a mere attempt to remain politically relevant and align himself with the federal government’s agenda. The party further warned that such a stance could set a dangerous precedent, as political disagreements should be resolved through constitutional means rather than extreme measures like an emergency declaration.
According to the PDP, Matawalle’s past governance in Zamfara was marred by controversies, insecurity, and poor leadership, making him unfit to lecture others on political stability and governance. The party challenged him to focus on his current role as Minister of State for Defence and address the worsening security crisis in Zamfara and other parts of the country, rather than interfering in political matters that do not concern him directly.
Furthermore, the Zamfara PDP urged the federal government to tread cautiously on matters relating to Rivers State, emphasizing that any declaration of a state of emergency should be based on legal and justifiable reasons, not political interests. The party called on Nigerians to remain vigilant against politicians who use their positions to advance personal agendas at the expense of democracy and national stability.
The party reiterated its commitment to defending democratic principles and ensuring that elected governments are not unfairly removed under the guise of emergency measures. It also called on the people of Rivers State to stand firm and resist any attempt to suppress their democratic rights.
As tensions rise over the political situation in Rivers State, the PDP reaffirmed its position that dialogue and constitutional processes should always be prioritized over extreme actions that could destabilize governance and threaten the nation’s democracy.
