Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle, has obtained a court injunction preventing several media organisations from publishing stories that link him to terrorist groups.
The former Zamfara State governor filed the case at the Kano State High Court late Wednesday, arguing through his lawyers that recent publications accusing him of ties to terrorist elements were “false, harmful, and completely unsubstantiated.”
The suit, registered as Case No. 4, lists Sahara Reporters, Mikiya, Omoyele Sowore, and several other platforms as defendants.
Following the filing, the court issued an interim order restricting the named media houses from releasing, distributing, or promoting any reports connected to the allegations until the main case is heard and decided.
The move comes after a series of media stories alleging that Matawalle maintained links with certain terror groups—claims that have stirred nationwide debate. The situation gained additional attention in the wake of recent changes within Nigeria’s defence leadership, where former Defence Minister Mohammed Badaru Abubakar was replaced by General Christopher Musa.
In his application, Matawalle dismissed the allegations as unfounded and damaging.
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“These publications misrepresent the facts and pose a serious threat to my reputation, both personally and in my capacity as a public official,” he stated in documents submitted to the court.
His legal team further argued that allowing the reports to circulate unchecked could mislead the public and erode confidence in a key member of the Federal Executive Council.
