A member of the Florida House of Representatives, Kimberly Daniels, has called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to remove or redeploy Nigeria’s Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle, citing worsening insecurity across the country.
In a statement issued Tuesday, Daniels expressed concern over recent killings in several states, including Plateau State, Nasarawa State, and Kaduna State. She referenced attacks that reportedly occurred during the Palm Sunday and Easter period, describing them as targeted violence against Christian communities.
Daniels said feedback from Nigerians indicates growing frustration with official responses to the crisis, with citizens demanding concrete security measures rather than public assurances.
The lawmaker also pointed to allegations linked to Matawalle’s tenure as governor of Zamfara State, including claims of possible connections with armed groups, harboring bandit leaders, and facilitating ransom payments. She said the allegations raise concerns that require scrutiny.
She recommended an immediate leadership review within the defence ministry, alongside a transparent investigation into the claims and stronger protection for vulnerable communities in the North-Central and North-West regions.
Daniels further urged the governments of the United States and United Kingdom, along with other international partners, to increase diplomatic pressure on Nigeria to ensure accountability for individuals accused of supporting violent groups.
She said her position followed outreach from Nigerians and reflected both her legislative role and personal ties to the country.
