The Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle, has urged Zamfara stakeholders to support President Bola Tinubu’s re-election bid in 2027 to help defeat banditry and other criminal activities in the state.

The former governor of Zamfara made the call in Kaduna on Saturday during an interactive meeting with former lawmakers, cabinet members, special advisers and political associates who served under his administration.

He said the meeting provided an opportunity to deliberate on security, political developments, and other issues affecting Zamfara State’s development.

The minister said protecting lives and property remained the foremost responsibility of any serious government, stressing the need for peace, unity and political cohesion.

“Security of lives and property is the major concern of every serious government in any country,” Mr Matawalle said.

He said the Tinubu administration had remained focused on tackling insecurity, promoting economic development and strengthening national unity despite prevailing challenges.

According to him, the president’s commitment to national security is evident in his frequent engagements and consultations on security matters within and outside the country.

Mr Matawalle urged the stakeholders to mobilise support for the Tinubu Again Movement ahead of the 2027 presidential election.

He specifically charged them to reach out to communities across Zamfara and beyond to galvanise support for Mr Tinubu’s re-election bid.

Earlier, leaders of the groups represented at the meeting commended Mr Matawalle for maintaining a strong political structure during his tenure as Zamfara governor from 2019 to 2023.

They said despite his current national assignment as a member of the Federal Executive Council, Mr Matawalle continued to command significant loyalty and support across Zamfara.

The leaders pledged their support for the Tinubu administration, saying the president’s success would translate into progress for them and their communities.

They also said they were ready to promote Mr Tinubu’s achievements and showcase Mr Matawalle’s leadership, describing him as a leader committed to the welfare and aspirations of his supporters. 

(NAN)