In a country already battling deadly waves of terrorism, mass abductions, and a deepening crisis of public trust, fresh allegations have emerged that strike at the heart of Nigeria’s national security architecture. The accusations, coming from someone who once worked closely with the Minister of Defence and former Zamfara State governor, Bello Matawalle, paint a deeply troubling picture — one that raises urgent questions about infiltration, loyalty, and the true depth of Nigeria’s insecurity.
The whistleblower, whose identity is being protected for safety reasons, described a system where political actors, terrorist kingpins, and government resources allegedly intersected in ways that undermined both governance and public safety. Speaking in a detailed interview, he claimed that during Matawalle’s time as governor, a network of operations existed which offered funding, vehicles, and political leverage to some of Zamfara’s most dangerous bandit commanders.
According to him, the relationship did not end with the 2023 political transition. Instead, he alleges a continuation — with the same terror leaders maintaining direct communication with a man now entrusted with securing a nation of more than 220 million citizens.
“I Knew Too Much” — Whistleblower Speaks
The former aide explained that his official role, which involved mediating between the government and armed groups, exposed him to sensitive internal dealings. He claims that this access is now the reason he is being targeted for silence.
His words were blunt and unsettling:
“I knew all the atrocities he carried out with bandits during his tenure. These appointments gave me the chance to know many of these terrorists and their activities.”
He alleged routine interactions between the governor and known terror commanders, including invitations to the Zamfara Government House for private meetings — even while communities were being ravaged by killings, kidnappings, and village burnings.
Buying Stolen Cattle From Bandits
Among the revelations was an alleged pattern of the governor purchasing rustled cattle from bandits, especially during festive seasons. The arrangement, according to the whistleblower, allowed the terror groups to avoid market scrutiny and secure quick cash.
“He used to buy rustled animals from bandits at cheaper rates… N150,000 each.”
For ordinary citizens whose livelihoods were destroyed by these same rustlers, the allegation reads like a betrayal.
36 Hilux Vehicles for Bandit Commanders
Perhaps the most explosive claim is the alleged distribution of 36 brand-new government-owned Hilux vehicles to leading terror commanders — including notorious names like Kachallah Turji and the late Halilu Sububu.
The whistleblower insists that the people of Shinkafi were fully aware of these transactions.
If true, this suggests that state resources — meant for development and governance — may have directly strengthened the firepower, mobility, and operational reach of terror groups now responsible for mass abductions and displacement.
Continued Contact as Defence Minister
Even more disturbing is the allegation that these interactions continued after Matawalle joined the federal cabinet as Minister of Defence.
The whistleblower named specific commanders still allegedly in contact with the minister — including Bello Tugoje and other high-profile bandit leaders — claiming conversations were held over WhatsApp.
“They always contact him for help… He also communicates with Bello Turji and Kachallah Haru Dole via WhatsApp.”
Such continued communication, if confirmed, would represent a grave breach of national security expectations.
A Political Machinery for 2023 — And 2027?
According to the former aide, the relationships were not merely transactional but deeply political.
He alleged that bandit groups were mobilised to influence the 2023 general elections, voting in favour of the ruling APC at the instruction of the then-governor.
“Many of these terrorists voted for APC in 2023 because the minister told them to.”
He also claimed that the same networks are being kept alive in preparation for the 2027 polls.
This paints a disturbing picture of governance where armed groups become political assets — a dynamic that could severely destabilise democratic integrity.
A Grim Contrast With Public Statements
The allegations stand in stark contradiction to recent public declarations by the Defence Ministry. Just days ago, Matawalle praised military progress in the Northwest, claiming that most major bandit leaders had been neutralised and that only “scattered elements” remained.
These statements came shortly after the abduction of over 25 schoolgirls in Kebbi State — a reminder that the crisis remains far from subdued.
The Minister of State had reaffirmed President Tinubu’s support for ongoing operations, assuring troops of intensified efforts to eliminate remaining terror cells.
But with the newest allegations surfacing, Nigerians are left grappling with one painful question:
How can a nation win a war when those entrusted with its defence are being accused of consorting with its enemies?