Defend Tinubu Or Get Fired, Presidency Reads Riot Act To Northern Ministers

Northern ministers in President Bola Tinubu’s cabinet have received marching orders to start defending his administration as criticism grows from opposition figures, as reported by PUNCH.

Recently, many northern elites and politicians have spoken against Tinubu’s leadership, in response, the Presidency has instructed ministers and top officials to counter these criticisms.

The Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle, criticized former Minister of Transportation, Rotimi Amaechi, for making statements against Tinubu.

Matawalle called Amaechi’s comments reckless and harmful to national unity.

He also responded to the Northern Elders Forum (NEF), which expressed regret over supporting Tinubu in the 2023 election.

Matawalle accused the group of pursuing personal interests rather than the region’s welfare.

Meanwhile, former Kaduna State governor, Nasir El-Rufai, and National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, clashed publicly.

El-Rufai accused Ribadu of calling Tinubu corrupt in the past. In response, Ribadu demanded a public apology through his lawyer.

The Minister of Foreign Affairs, Yusuf Tuggar, also defended Tinubu after Bauchi State Governor, Bala Mohammed, criticized the government.

Tuggar called Mohammed’s remarks misleading and accused him of failing to develop Bauchi despite increased federal funds.

A source close to the government confirmed that northern ministers were directed to defend Tinubu.

The source stated that opposition figures were trying to weaken Tinubu’s chances in 2027.

He added that some northern politicians were divided over who should lead after Tinubu.

According to the source, while some northern leaders want a different candidate in 2027, others, including Vice President Kashim Shettima, support Tinubu’s reelection.

SOURCE: PUNCH