The Minister of State for Defence, Dr Bello Matawalle, has condemned the alleged statement credited to former Minister of Transport Rotimi Amaechi calling for protest from Nigerians.
This is contained in a statement on Saturday in Abuja, by Mr Henshaw Ogubike, Director, Information and Public Relations, Ministry of Defence.
Amaechi is alleged to have called on Nigerian youths to rise up in protest against government policies that were anti people.
Reacting Matawalle condemned Amaechi’s call in the strongest of terms.
He cautioned the former minister to desist from inflammatory remarks that threaten the peace and stability of the nation.
He also accused the former minister of inciting violence and unrest among the Nigerian populace.
Matawalle also expressed deep concern over the dangers posed by such rhetoric.
“It is both reckless and irresponsible for a former public servant of Amaechi’s standing to incite Nigerians against their own government.
“At a time when President Bola Tinubu is working tirelessly to address the challenges facing the nation through various reforms that are yielding results.
“It is absurd, preposterous and shameful for anyone to exploit the genuine situation of our citizens for selfish political gain,” he said.
The Minister further reiterated Tinubu’s commitment to safeguarding the peace and security of every Nigerian, warning that any attempts to destabilise the country through incitement will not be tolerated.
“We will not allow anyone to fuel violence or manipulate the prevailing situation of our people.
Matawalle also cautioned the former minister not to cast aspersions on government genuine intentions for the people.
“It is expected that Amaechi joins hands with the government to move the country forward, rather than chose to stay aside with myopic assertions,” he added.