Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle, has denounced certain northern politicians for allegedly plotting against President Bola Tinubu ahead of the 2027 elections. Matawalle described these politicians as “unpatriotic” and lacking grassroots support, with an “entitlement mentality”.

The former Zamfara State governor expressed confidence that the alleged plot would fail, citing the substantial benefits the northern region has received under Tinubu’s leadership. He urged northern political leaders to unite behind the President to further his Renewed Hope agenda and improve the country’s economy and politics.

Matawalle highlighted key appointments of northerners in Tinubu’s government, including himself, Mohammed Badaru Abubakar, Atiku Bagudu, and others in various ministries and security agencies. He emphasized the region’s substantial representation in the administration, contradicting claims of northern politicians being marginalized.

The minister’s statement comes after Salihu Lukman, a former APC national vice chairman, criticized northern politicians in Tinubu’s administration, accusing them of being reduced to mere sycophants.