The Zamfara Anti-Corruption and Security Watchdog has urged the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to fulfill its promise by investigating former Governor Bello Matawalle over alleged misappropriation of state funds totaling more than ₦250 billion during his tenure from 2019 to 2023.
In a statement signed by its chairman, Comrade Bello Garba Gusau, the group expressed concern over the EFCC’s delay in acting on multiple petitions and reports alleging financial misconduct. The statement cited the Zamfara State Transition Committee report, headed by former Inspector General of Police MD Abubakar, which uncovered massive irregularities. It alleged that significant funds were released for key infrastructural projects that were either abandoned, incomplete, or never executed. These include the Gusau International Cargo Airport, renovations at the State Government House, 14 Local Government lodges, and several road construction contracts across the state.
The group warned that EFCC’s inaction could signal selective enforcement of justice, thereby undermining Nigeria’s anti-corruption drive. They reminded the commission of its successful efforts in pursuing other prominent figures, including former Minister of Humanitarian Affairs Betty Edu, former lawmaker Mohammed Gudaje Kazaure, and ex-governors Yahaya Bello, Darius Ishaku, Willie Obiano, and Theodore Orji. The watchdog insisted that Matawalle should not be treated as a special case and should face the same scrutiny.
According to the group, the continued delay in probing Matawalle creates doubts about the EFCC’s neutrality and raises concerns about impunity. They emphasized that no individual, regardless of rank or political influence, should be above the law.
They concluded by reaffirming their commitment to pursuing social justice, good governance, and public accountability in Zamfara State, stating that the credibility of the EFCC now rests on how it handles the allegations against the former governor.
