“We Will Investigate Allegations of Corruption Against Ex-Zamfara Governor Matawalle,” EFCC Promises

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has announced plans to investigate former Zamfara State Governor Bello Matawalle amid allegations of financial mismanagement amounting to N528 billion. This decision follows a formal petition submitted by the APC Akida Forum, a socio-political group.

On Monday, a delegation from the APC Akida Forum, led by Mahmud Mohammed, visited the EFCC headquarters in Abuja to present their concerns regarding Matawalle’s alleged misappropriation of state funds. The group claims that during his administration, Matawalle received N290 billion from the Federation Account Allocation Committee (FAAC) and N133 billion from the Joint Account Allocation Committee (JAAC), in addition to taking out a loan of N105 billion.

EFCC spokesperson Dele Oyewale addressed the demonstrators, affirming the commission’s commitment to investigating any allegations of economic and financial crimes. “The EFCC Chairman, Ola Olukoyede, will do everything within his power to address these issues,” Oyewale stated. He emphasized that the investigation forms part of a broader initiative to combat corruption in Nigeria, as several former governors and ministers are currently facing scrutiny for alleged financial misconduct.

The APC Akida Forum expressed optimism that the investigation would foster greater transparency and accountability in governance. Mohammed reiterated the forum’s call for Matawalle to account for the significant sums allegedly received during his tenure from 2019 to 2023. He stated, “These are not mere allegations or speculations. We have gathered substantial evidence regarding Bello Matawalle’s alleged embezzlement of billions of Naira.”

The forum’s petition also criticized Matawalle’s public statements, where he reportedly downplayed the funds he received, claiming he did not obtain anything close to N70 billion. “The facts contradict Bello Matawalle’s statements, and the EFCC should investigate him to account for the funds,” Mohammed asserted.