‎“Only God Can End Insecurity” Remark Sparks Outrage as Defence Minister Faces Backlash ‎

‎Nigeria’s Minister of State for Defence, Bello Muhammad Matawalle, has come under intense public criticism following remarks suggesting that only God can ultimately bring an end to the country’s worsening insecurity.
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‎Speaking amid growing concerns over recent abductions in parts of the country, Matawalle called on Nigerians to support security agencies, pray for peace, and avoid politicizing security challenges. His comments followed reports of the kidnapping of dozens of students and teachers in Oyo State, as well as the abduction of schoolchildren in Borno State.
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‎The minister maintained that the federal government remains committed to tackling insecurity and described ongoing efforts by security forces as relentless. He also condemned what he described as misleading videos and narratives aimed at discrediting the administration of Bola Ahmed Tinubu, arguing that security threats are a global challenge affecting even the most developed nations.
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‎However, his remarks quickly triggered widespread reactions from Nigerians, many of whom expressed frustration over the country’s persistent security crisis. Critics argued that the statement appeared to shift responsibility away from government institutions tasked with protecting citizens.
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‎On social media and other public platforms, some commentators called for the minister’s resignation, while others sarcastically suggested that if only divine intervention could solve the problem, his salary should be redirected to religious causes.
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‎The controversy highlights growing public dissatisfaction over years of kidnappings, insurgency, banditry, and displacement that have continued to affect communities across the country despite repeated government assurances.
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‎As insecurity remains one of Nigeria’s most pressing challenges, the minister’s comments have reignited debate over the effectiveness of current security strategies and the level of accountability expected from public officials responsible for national defence.