By Achadu Gabriel, Kaduna
The All Progressive Congress (APC) youth group, *Tinubu Youth Network (TYN)*, has called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to compel the Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle, to step aside pending an investigation into his alleged ties with bandits.
During a press conference in Kaduna, the group’s Secretary-General, Yusuf Muhammad, expressed concerns over the mounting criticisms surrounding Matawalle’s alleged involvement with bandit groups. The group urged the President to take swift action to protect the party’s image.
“We appeal to our president and leader, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, to intervene in this matter,” said Muhammad. “If left unaddressed, it could damage the APC’s reputation.”
The group referred to recent interviews by Zamfara State Governor, Dauda Lawal, which have gone viral. In these interviews, Lawal highlighted the serious issues he inherited when he assumed office, raising concerns about Matawalle’s alleged ties to criminals.
The APC TYN stated that it had attempted to reach out to party leaders regarding these allegations but had received no response. “These are serious matters affecting governance, security, and the welfare of Zamfara State residents, and they should not be taken lightly,” the group added.
They emphasized the need for a thorough investigation to maintain the party’s integrity. “We want a full probe into the allegations against Bello Matawalle to safeguard the president’s reputation and the future of the APC,” Muhammad continued.
The youth group also urged Matawalle to step aside and allow the investigation to proceed, stressing that such action would preserve the party’s image and hold those in leadership accountable. “Matawalle must clarify his alleged connections to individuals like Bello Tagoji, Musa Kamarawa, and Ardon Zuru,” Muhammad concluded.
The group questioned why loyalty to the president should overshadow serious allegations. “Bello Matawalle is not the only minister in this government. Why is he the one surrounded by so many allegations?”
In their final statement, the APC TYN called for transparency and accountability, urging Matawalle to voluntarily step down and subject himself to investigation, ensuring that both the integrity of the APC and the administration remain intact.
