APC Group Calls for Probe into Ex-Governor's Alleged N70 Billion Corruption

The APC Akida Forum, a socio-political pressure group, has called on the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to investigate Dr. Bello Mohammed Matawalle, the former Governor of Zamfara State and current Minister of Defense, over alleged corruption and mismanagement of public funds totaling N70 billion. The group submitted a formal complaint to the EFCC headquarters on May 3rd, 2024, urging the commission to reopen the investigation into Matawalle's alleged corruption activities during his tenure as Governor of Zamfara State.

Why this matters: The investigation into Matawalle's alleged corruption has significant implications for Nigeria's efforts to combat corruption and address its underlying causes, such as poverty and food insecurity. If found guilty, Matawalle's prosecution could set a precedent for holding high-ranking officials accountable for corruption, potentially leading to a reduction in corrupt practices and an improvement in the country's overall governance.

The EFCC had previously investigated Matawalle over allegations of monumental corruption, award of phantom contracts, and diversion of funds, but the case was allegedly swept under the carpet. The group's chairman, Mallam Musa Mahmud, stated that Matawalle was accused of diverting funds meant for projects in Zamfara State and using them to fund his political ambitions, among other allegations. "We formally request that the commission reopen the investigation into the corruption allegations against Bello Mohammed Matawalle, the State Minister for Defense," said Mahmud.

In response, the EFCC Acting Director of Public Affairs, Wilson Uwujaren, assured that the Commission will continue with the alleged N70 billion corruption case against Matawalle. "I want to assure you all that EFCC does not close cases. Once we open an investigation into a case, we will continue. So, I assure you that this petition will be looked into," stated Uwujaren.

This development comes at a time when the Nigerian government is taking bold steps against corruption. Nigeria has been struggling with corruption, insecurity, and poverty, with 2022 and 2023 reports from Transparency International highlighting the country's high corruption levels. A sermon by Imam Murtadha Muhammad Gusau emphasized the need for moral education and collective effort to combat corruption in the nation.

The corruption allegations against Matawalle are set against the backdrop of a severe food insecurity and poverty crisis in Nigeria. According to the 2021 National Food Consumption and Micronutrients Survey report, only 21% of Nigerian households are food secure, while a staggering 79% are food insecure. The report reveals that 59% of households are moderately food insecure, and 20% are severely food insecure. Dr. Michael Ojo, Country Director of GAIN, expressed concern over the decline in water supply and emphasized the need for concerted efforts to address the root cause of the problem.

Key Takeaways

• APC Akida Forum calls for EFCC to investigate ex-Gov. Matawalle over N70bn corruption allegations.
• Matawalle accused of diverting funds meant for Zamfara State projects to fund political ambitions.
• EFCC assures it will continue investigating the case, which was previously "swept under the carpet".
• Nigeria struggles with corruption, insecurity, and poverty, with only 21% of households food secure.
• Prosecution of high-ranking officials like Matawalle could set a precedent for combating corruption.