The National Association of Nigerian Students has called for the immediate removal of the Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle, over allegations linking him to banditry, warning that failure to act could trigger nationwide protests by students.
In a statement issued on Monday and signed by the President of the NANS Headquarters Senate, Usman Adamu Nagwaza, the student body described the allegations as alarming and incompatible with the responsibilities of a public officer entrusted with national security.
NANS said the claims raised fundamental questions about transparency, accountability and the integrity of government officials, stressing that Nigerians deserved clear answers and decisive action.
The association maintained that any suggestion of ties between a serving defence minister and criminal elements constituted a grave breach of public trust, particularly at a time when the country continues to grapple with insecurity.
According to the statement, the allegations, if left unaddressed, could undermine public confidence in the government’s resolve to combat banditry and protect innocent citizens from violence and displacement.
The students’ body demanded Matawalle’s removal from office pending a comprehensive and independent investigation, arguing that such a step was necessary to guarantee a fair probe and prevent interference.
NANS further warned that retaining the minister amid the allegations could embolden criminal networks and weaken national security efforts.
It issued a one-week ultimatum to the Federal Government, threatening to mobilise students across the country to block major highways should its demand be ignored.
The association also urged President Bola Tinubu to intervene decisively, insisting that Nigerians would not tolerate corruption, abuse of office or any form of complicity with criminal elements.
“The rule of law must prevail, and anyone found culpable must be held accountable,” the statement added.
