The Digest:
Former Defence Minister Abubakar Badaru was compelled to resign due to a protracted, behind-the-scenes rift with the Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle, rather than the officially cited health concerns, a Saturday PUNCH investigation has revealed. The Cold War reportedly created a dysfunctional environment within the ministry amid a worsening national security crisis.
Key Points:
- Badaru Abubakar resigned as Defence Minister on December 1, with the presidency citing poor health.
- Insider sources reveal his exit was triggered by a long-standing cold war with Minister of State Bello Matawalle.
- The two ministers maintained a cordial public facade but had a frosty, unproductive relationship privately.
- Matawalle is perceived to have stronger political backing from the presidency and the APC leadership.
- Badaru faced mounting pressure over rising banditry and mass kidnappings before his resignation.
- Matawalle has faced repeated calls to resign over alleged links to bandits, which he denies.
- The new Defence Minister, General Christopher Musa, has pledged to review all theatre commands and prioritise troop welfare.
- Musa declared zero tolerance for corruption and emphasised operational unity among security agencies.
The revelation exposes the political undercurrents and internal conflicts that can undermine Nigeria’s highest security office during a period of acute national threat.
Sources: Saturday PUNCH
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