By Milcah Tanimu
Zamfara State Governor, Bello Matawalle, is accused of embezzling over ₦70 billion during his tenure, according to Governor Lawal. Despite providing evidence to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), little action has been taken to recover the funds.
Lawal expressed disbelief that Matawalle was appointed Minister of State for Defence despite these allegations. He criticized the lack of action from security agencies and the EFCC regarding claims of banditry and financial misconduct.
Lawal stated, “In May 2023, we found that the alleged ₦70 billion misappropriated was just the beginning. The EFCC has all this information, yet Matawalle was cleared to become a minister. I question how this could happen.”
Lawal, who noted Matawalle’s large family, urged him to clear his name. “As a father of 41 children, Matawalle should seek to clear his name. It would be more honorable for him to address these allegations transparently. Meanwhile, the people of Zamfara need these funds to address pressing challenges,” Lawal added.
