The Zamfara Anti-Corruption and Security Watchdog has called on the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to honour its commitment and launch a thorough investigation into the alleged misappropriation of over ₦250 billion during the administration of former Zamfara State Governor, Bello Matawalle, who governed from 2019 to 2023.
In a detailed statement issued by the group’s Chairman, Comrade Bello Garba Gusau, the watchdog expressed deep concern over the EFCC’s continued delay in acting on multiple petitions that highlight significant financial irregularities under the former governor’s regime. They warned that such selective silence could damage the credibility of Nigeria’s broader anti-corruption campaign.
Referencing findings from the Zamfara State Transition Committee chaired by former Inspector General of Police, MD Abubakar, the group noted that the committee’s report revealed massive corruption, including unexecuted or abandoned projects despite full budgetary allocations. These include the Gusau International Cargo Airport, 14 Local Government Lodges, renovations of the Zamfara State Government House, and various road construction projects—all of which were either incomplete or entirely non-existent despite the disbursement of state funds.
“The transition report clearly outlined that over ₦250 billion was misapplied or siphoned off under Matawalle’s administration,” the statement said. “We demand that the EFCC conduct a comprehensive forensic investigation to uncover how these funds were managed or misused.”
The watchdog further underscored the urgency of the matter, citing that other high-profile politicians—including former Minister of Humanitarian Affairs, Betty Edu; former House of Representatives member Mohammed Gudaje Kazaure; and ex-governors Yahaya Bello, Darius Dickson Ishaku, Willie Obiano, and Theodore Orji—have all been subject to EFCC scrutiny and prosecution.
“If these prominent figures can be investigated, there is no justification for the EFCC’s silence on Bello Matawalle. The fight against corruption must be impartial and inclusive,” the group asserted.
They warned that the EFCC’s hesitance to act on the Matawalle case could raise public doubts about the commission’s integrity and commitment to justice. The group emphasised that no Nigerian, regardless of political status or influence, should be considered above the law.
“There must be no sacred cows in the anti-corruption drive,” the statement declared. “Justice and fairness demand that every allegation be treated with the same level of seriousness and urgency.”
The watchdog reaffirmed its commitment to advocating for transparency, good governance, and public accountability in Zamfara State. They pledged to maintain pressure on the EFCC until tangible steps are taken.
“All eyes are now on the EFCC. As an anti-corruption and security advocacy group, we will not relent in our efforts to ensure social justice and uphold democratic accountability in Zamfara State,” the group concluded.
