Northern groups, under the banners of the Arewa Youth Consultative Forum (AYCF) and the Northern Awareness Network (NAN), have criticized National Assembly member Aminu Jaji over his allegations against Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle.
The groups described Jaji’s claims as baseless and accused him of attempting to deflect attention from his own political and financial dealings.
The groups issued separate statements in Kaduna on Sunday, denouncing Jaji’s accusations that Matawalle was behind those accusing him of anti-party activities in Zamfara State.
The President-General of AYCF, Alhaji Yerima Shettima, said Jaji’s claims lacked credibility and were a tactic to distract from his own controversies.
Jaji, who represents Kaura/Birnin Magaji Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, has been at the center of a political controversy in Zamfara State.
A political group, the Jajiya Political Movement, had earlier accused Matawalle of orchestrating a campaign to tarnish Jaji’s reputation.
However, AYCF and NAN argue that Jaji’s record raises serious concerns about his credibility.
“It is essential to highlight that Honourable Aminu Sani Jaji is widely recognized within political circles,” Shettima stated.
“His venture, the organization known as ‘All For Baba,’ was ostensibly established to galvanize support for President Muhammadu Buhari. However, reports indicate that this organization was merely a facade for siphoning funds under the guise of political campaigning.
“Jaji allegedly colluded with the former Director-General of the State Security Services, Bichi, to misappropriate funds intended for legitimate political activities. This raises serious questions about his integrity and motives.”
In a separate statement, the Chairman of NAN, Salihu Suleiman, argued that Jaji’s political inconsistencies made him an unreliable leader, particularly in a time of national challenges.
“The remarks made by Jaji not only lack substantiation but also reflect a deeper issue regarding his own reliability and judgment,” Suleiman said.
“Leadership is not merely about holding a position of power; it is about embodying qualities that inspire trust and confidence among constituents. Minister Bello Mohammed Matawalle exemplifies these qualities. His tenure has been marked by a steadfast commitment to the security and well-being of our communities.”
The NAN statement further emphasized Matawalle’s role in enhancing national security, fostering community relations, and promoting unity among different groups.
Both AYCF and NAN urged the leadership of the All Progressives Congress (APC) to scrutinize Jaji’s political conduct and ensure accountability within the party.
“The youth of Arewa and, indeed, all Nigerians deserve leaders who prioritize the welfare of the populace over personal ambition,” NAN said. “It is time for the APC to distance itself from individuals who engage in deceitful practices and reaffirm its commitment to transparency and good governance.”
The groups maintained that they would continue advocating for political accountability and integrity, ensuring that leaders who engage in deception are held responsible.
Zamfara State has witnessed political instability in recent years, particularly following the 2023 elections. Matawalle, a former governor of Zamfara, was appointed Minister of State for Defence by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, while Jaji has remained active in state politics. Accusations of anti-party activities and internal conflicts within the APC have heightened tensions between political factions in the state.
With the growing political rift, analysts say the APC leadership may need to intervene to prevent further divisions ahead of future elections. The statements from AYCF and NAN highlight the broader concerns over leadership credibility and governance in Northern Nigeria.
