The Coalition for Truth and National Interest (CTNI), a citizens-led advocacy organisation, has faulted fresh attacks on the Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle, over a resurfaced video.
In a statement signed by its National President, Comrade Olatokunbo Olawoyin, the group warned against politicising a years-old clip for partisan advantage, describing the ongoing criticism as “opportunistic and disconnected from the security context of that period.”
According to CTNI, the attempt to revive outdated footage for political mileage ignores the complex realities Nigeria faced at the time and unfairly misrepresents Matawalle’s stance and contributions.
“Recycling old videos to score political points only distorts public discourse and distracts from the urgent security concerns confronting the nation,” Olawoyin said. “It does not reflect the minister’s longstanding commitment to national stability nor his active role within Nigeria’s current defence structure.”
The group cited Matawalle’s recent involvement in national security operations, particularly the successful rescue of schoolgirls abducted in Maga, Kebbi State, as evidence of his effectiveness and strategic understanding of security challenges.
“That operation was not a coincidence,” the group noted. “It required experience, thoughtful coordination, and a deep grasp of the security dynamics in the North-West. Those fixated on old clips are deliberately overlooking his recent efforts to strengthen national stability.”
CTNI urged Nigerians to distinguish between explaining the root causes of insecurity and endorsing criminality, warning that blurring this line leads to unfair attacks on officials working at the frontlines of national defence.
“At a time like this—with multiple security threats confronting the country—the government needs capable hands who understand both the operational and human dimensions of conflict. Matawalle is one of such key assets,” the statement read.
The coalition also appealed to the media and the public to resist the lure of sensational narratives and place national interest above social media-driven controversies.
“Nigeria is at a decisive moment. We cannot allow manufactured outrage or recycled footage to dictate public perception. This is not the time to weaponise old videos or undermine those contributing to the nation’s stability,” CTNI stated.
The group concluded by urging citizens to focus on visible, present-day contributions rather than outdated clips, insisting that Matawalle remains a valuable member of President Bola Tinubu’s cabinet and a critical player in efforts to strengthen defence and internal security.
