Former Zamfara Central senator, Kabiru Marafa, has strongly refuted claims made by Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle, regarding Northern elders. In a recent statement, Matawalle described the Northern Elders Forum as insignificant and burdensome, a sentiment that Marafa vehemently opposes.
Marafa emphasized the crucial role that Northern elders played in President Bola Tinubu’s success, highlighting their contributions to addressing pressing issues such as terrorism, insurgency, economic disparities, and infrastructure decay. He urged Matawalle to retract his disparaging remarks and issue an apology to the Northern elders and the region as a whole.
Drawing on his close collaboration with President Tinubu, Marafa asserted that the President holds the North and its leaders in high regard. He emphasized the importance of respecting elders in Northern culture and condemned derogatory remarks towards them.
As a prominent figure within the APC and the Northern region, Marafa clarified that Matawalle’s views are personal and do not reflect those of the President or the Presidency. He affirmed that the North, Northerners, and Northern elders are integral to the fabric of the nation, a sentiment shared by President Tinubu.
Marafa’s unwavering defense of Northern elders underscores the significance of cultural respect and unity within the region. His stance serves as a reminder of the importance of honoring traditions and valuing the contributions of elders in society.
