The Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle, has attacked former Minister of Transportation, Rotimi Amaechi.
He accused him of inciting the youths to violence.
Matawalle warned that President Bola Tinubu’s administration would not stand by and allow the likes of Amaechi to manipulate Nigerian youths into chaos and violence.
He issued the warning against Amaechi’s comment at a conference in Abuja where he said that Nigerian politicians must “steal, maim, and kill to remain in power.”
Reacting, the Minister said Amaechi has made an attempt to radicalize the youth and destabilize national security.
In a statement by Henshaw Ogubike, Director of Press and Public Relations at the Ministry of Defence, the Minister said: “It is both reckless and dangerous for a former public office holder to make such inflammatory remarks.
“At a time when the government is working tirelessly to consolidate national unity and security, no responsible leader should fan the flames of violence and political unrest.
“Nigeria is a sovereign nation governed by laws, not a jungle where power is seized through brute force.
“Let me make it clear: security agencies are on high alert. Any individual or group found inciting violence or attempting to destabilize this nation will face the full force of the law.
“Amaechi and others who believe they can manipulate our youth into chaos should rethink their actions. This government will not stand idly by while individuals attempt to disrupt the peace and stability of Nigeria.”
He assured that Tinubu was committed to the unity of Nigeria and would never undermine the country’s democracy.
“President Tinubu’s commitment to the unity and progress of our great nation is unwavering. Having experienced both military rule and democratic governance, he would never undermine the very democracy he has fought to uphold,” he stated.