The Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle, has urged opposition politicians to refrain from actions capable of inciting Nigerians against President Bola Tinubu’s constitutionally elected government.

Mr Matawalle made the call in a statement in Kaduna on Friday, issued by Ahmad Dan-Wudil, his personal assistant on media.

He described as unfortunate reports that a politician allegedly engaged a foreign lobbying firm to circulate decades-old documents relating to President Tinubu in the United States.

According to the minister, such actions neither strengthen Nigeria’s democracy nor address the country’s pressing challenges.

He urged opposition leaders to support government efforts to tackle insecurity, strengthen national unity and improve the welfare of Nigerians instead of undermining the Presidency.

Mr Matawalle described the presidency as a national institution and a symbol of Nigeria’s sovereignty that deserves respect regardless of political differences.

He said no foreign government or lobbying firm could determine Nigeria’s democratic choices or overturn the mandate freely given by Nigerians.

The minister stressed that political disagreements should never be pursued at the expense of Nigeria’s image, unity and collective interest.

He noted that U.S. President Donald Trump recently commended President Tinubu’s leadership and acknowledged Nigeria’s progress in strengthening security cooperation and combating terrorism.

According to him, the recognition reflects growing international confidence in Nigeria’s efforts and should encourage citizens to promote unity instead of divisive narratives abroad.

Mr Matawalle said propaganda and hatred against the government would neither weaken its progress nor survival, but would instead politically and morally discredit those behind such campaigns.

He maintained that falsehood and mischief would not bring down the Tinubu administration because Nigerians freely entrusted it with the mandate to govern.

The minister called on opposition politicians to embrace constructive engagement by offering credible alternatives and supporting efforts to combat insecurity, promote peaceful coexistence and accelerate national development.

He also urged political actors to avoid actions capable of overheating the polity ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Mr Matawalle said every political actor has a responsibility to protect Nigeria’s unity, stability and international reputation.

(NAN)