Northern ministers in President Bola Tinubu’s cabinet have begun to publicly support the administration, pushing back against growing criticism from opposition figures .This show of support comes after the Tinubu administration faced intense attacks from political groups, party bigwigs, and former governors.
Ministers such as Bello Matawalle, Minister of State for Defence, and Yusuf Tuggar, Minister of Foreign Affairs, have responded to criticisms from notable politicians. Matawalle condemned Rotimi Amaechi’s comments against Tinubu, describing them as “reckless and inflammatory”.Tuggar also rebutted Bauchi State Governor Bala Mohammed’s accusations, calling them “mischievous” and urging him to avoid misleading the public.
Sources close to the Presidency reveal that northern leaders have received “marching orders” to confront opposition against the President. “Yes, we need to silence these nay-sayers,” said a strong ally of one of the defence ministers . This move is seen as an attempt to counter the growing anti-Tinubu sentiment in the North.
The Presidency’s strategy also involves strengthening supporters with appointments and projects. President Tinubu has allocated projects to key states, including a university in Kaduna South, in an effort to bolster his support base .
