The Northern Progressive and Advancement Forum (NPAF) has called on the Department of Security Services (DSS) and Nigerian Immigration Service (NIS) to apprehend Nigerians allegedly agitating for a foreign invasion.

Speaking on behalf of the group, Alhaji Abubakar Yusuf emphasized that freedom of information and political differences should not be used as grounds for making treasonous statements. He accused some politicians, particularly from Zamfara and other northern states, of using political rivalry and personal animosity to undermine government officials.

Yusuf noted that the agitators have targeted Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle, questioning his achievements despite his contributions to national security. “A highly placed politician from Zamfara, bedevilled with security challenges, ought to proffer proper solutions, not fuel the situation,” he said.

He also referenced a past incident during Matawalle’s tenure as Zamfara governor, where the minister removed a relative of an agitator from office for allegedly turbaning a bandit kingpin.

The NPAF described such calls for foreign intervention as inimical to national progress, stressing that Matawalle legitimately occupies his position with presidential approval and has contributed significantly to the fight against insurgency. The group praised his role in rescuing schoolgirls in Kebbi, Chibok, Dapchi, and Yauri.

Yusuf commended President Bola Tinubu and the military for successes in countering insurgency and other crimes, urging northerners to unite, embrace socioeconomic growth, and promote peaceful co-existence.