The group cautioned against external interference in the country’s internal security affairs, warning that it could disrupt ongoing efforts to stabilise troubled regions.

In a statement signed by its chairman, Hon. Gabriel Idoko, the Forum responded to recent remarks by Kimberly Daniels, who called for Matawalle’s removal following a security assessment on Nigeria.

It said the conclusion was based on a “selective interpretation” of the country’s complex security challenges.

The Forum argued that Nigeria’s insecurity cannot be resolved by targeting individuals, stressing that it requires coordinated institutional action across security agencies.

It added that Matawalle works within a broader defence structure under President Bola Tinubu’s administration, contributing to joint military operations and intelligence coordination.

According to the group, undermining that collaboration based on unverified claims would be harmful to national security.

The Forum also warned against what it described as growing external influence in Nigeria’s security discourse without proper engagement with local realities.

It urged that allegations of wrongdoing be handled through credible investigations rather than public speculation.

While acknowledging ongoing security challenges in parts of the country, the group said accountability must follow due process and evidence-based procedures.

It further defended Matawalle’s experience as a former governor of Zamfara State, saying it gives him valuable insight into handling rural insecurity and community conflicts.

The Forum called for support for security agencies and urged stakeholders to avoid statements that could weaken public confidence or troop morale, insisting that constructive engagement is key to addressing the nation’s security concerns.

He made the clarification during a media chat in Abuja, stressing that both the APC constitution and the Electoral Act clearly outline how candidates emerge.

Yilwatda said the party has no provision for automatic nominations, adding that all aspirants must go through the approved primary processes.

“There is no automatic ticket in our constitution. The party cannot promise an automatic ticket,” he said.

He explained that the Electoral Act only recognises consensus or direct primaries, not automatic selections.

“All members of our party will undergo the same process. We will use the Electoral Act, our party guidelines, and constitution to get people to participate in primaries,” he added.

The APC chairman also noted that performance would play a key role in determining who gets the party’s ticket, saying party members and voters will ultimately judge lawmakers seeking re-election.

Speaking on Channels Television’s Politics Today on Wednesday, Tanko said retaining the current power rotation arrangement would improve any party’s chances at the polls.

He argued that since the presidency is currently in the South, political parties should maintain the regional balance in their selection process.

“To make it easy for the party to win, zone it to the South and give the candidacy to the South, and you are sure of winning,” he said.

Tanko warned that ignoring zoning considerations could hurt any party’s electoral prospects in 2027.

“Anything short of that will only bring you losing the election,” he added.

He further urged Nigerians to conduct independent assessments of the political climate, insisting that public opinion supports the zoning position.

His comments come amid ongoing political debates over zoning and power rotation ahead of the 2027 presidential race.