By Wasila Yakubu Abdullahi, Kaduna
A group under the auspices of Concerned Northern Forum (CNF) has called on the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to investigate former Governor of Zamfara State, Bello Mohammed Matawalle, over the alleged embezzlement of over N528 billion from Federation Account Allocation Committee (FAAC), Joint Account Allocation Committee (JAAC), and loans collected between 2019 to 2023.
The group, in a press conference held in Kaduna, claimed that Matawalle, now the Minister of State for Defence, needs to account for over N290 billion from FAAC and N133 billion from JAAC that he received during his tenure as governor. Additionally, he is expected to explain the N105 billion loan he took during his tenure.
According to the group's chairman, Alhaji Aliyu Muhammad Sani, "We have gathered facts and figures regarding Bello Matawalle's alleged embezzlement of billions of Naira. These are not mere allegations or speculations." Sani noted that despite submitting petitions to the EFCC, including one on May 3, 2024, and a follow-up petition on September 30, 2024, the investigation has not commenced.
The group commended the EFCC's performance in fighting corruption, citing its actions against former Minister Betta Edu and former Governors Yahaya Bello and Darius Ishaku. However, they expressed concern that Matawalle, a former governor and current minister, seems to be shielded from investigation.
Sani emphasized that the EFCC should investigate Matawalle's tenure as governor, adding that the commission has access to all facts regarding financial crimes in the country. "We urge the EFCC to investigate this matter in order to uphold its credibility and neutrality in the fight against corruption in Nigeria," he said.
The group also questioned Matawalle's claim that he received only N70 billion during his four-year tenure as governor, calling it misinformation. They urged the EFCC to take action and ensure that Matawalle accounts for the alleged embezzled funds.
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