The All Progressives Congress (APC) Youth Wing Mobilisation Vanguard has urged the elders of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) in the North West to address their internal conflicts and find solutions to their challenges instead of blaming Minister of State for Defence, Hon Bello Mohammed Matawalle, for their setbacks.

In a statement, the group’s chairman, Alhaji Ashiru Tukur, responded to the PDP’s claims of political harassment against their supporters in the Northwest, attributing these allegations to the party’s attempts to shift blame for their own failures.

Over the weekend, the PDP’s Professionals Support Movement called on President Bola Tinubu to intervene and prevent Minister Matawalle from allegedly intimidating opposition leaders in the region.

Tukur dismissed these accusations as unfounded and merely a tactic of political smear aimed at undermining the current APC-led government. He characterized the PDP in the North as a faction of disillusioned political figures who resort to creating chaos and distrust among the populace.

“The PDP’s track record speaks for itself; they have failed to govern even in areas plagued by poverty and insecurity, largely due to their negligence and poor leadership,” he asserted. “Whenever the PDP seeks to cover up their shortcomings, they resort to slander and personal attacks. This reflects their incompetence and a desperate attempt to incite conflict during a time when the nation is yearning for solutions to pressing issues like insecurity, hunger, and poverty.”

Highlighting Matawalle’s philanthropic efforts, Tukur noted that the Minister remains connected with the community, providing aid during difficult times. Recently, alongside Senator Abdulaziz Yari, he contributed substantial funds and resources to support those affected by flooding in Gummi local government area, despite ongoing hostility from opposition parties.

Tukur emphasized the detrimental impact of the PDP’s smear campaign against Matawalle, arguing that such actions undermine collaborative efforts, disrupt social harmony, and impede the realization of President Tinubu’s vision for a renewed Nigeria founded on hope.

“President Tinubu is committed to fostering a society built on mutual respect and progress. It is crucial for leaders to reject divisive tactics and instead promote cooperation and constructive dialogue, especially at this critical juncture,” he stated.

The APC Youth Vanguard has called for an immediate apology from PDP leaders for their alleged defamatory campaign against Matawalle and other APC figures. They urged the public to remain vigilant against those who seek to undermine collective interests for their own gain.