A non-governmental group, the Arewa Concerns Citizens has issued a warning to the Akida Forum of the All Progressives Congress (APC), urging them to refrain from using anti-corruption campaign for personal political agendas.
This warning follows a recent petition by some APC members who called on the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to investigate alleged financial mismanagement by Bello Matawalle, the Minister of State for Defence and former Zamfara State Governor.
The APC group, led by Mahmud Mohammed, alleged that Matawalle’s administration received N290 billion from the Federation Account Allocation Committee, N133 billion from the Joint Account Allocation Committee, and also took a loan of N105 billion, raising concerns over possible mismanagement of these funds.
In response, the Arewa group, through its National Coordinator, Abubakar Mansur, urged caution in politicizing the anti-corruption campaign.
“As a country, we must be careful not to politicize the fight against corruption,” Mansur stated in a counter-statement on Tuesday, stressing that the focus should remain on justice, not political vendettas.
Mansur expressed confidence in Matawalle’s integrity, emphasizing that the former governor had consistently handled state resources transparently during his tenure. He assured the public that Matawalle welcomes any investigation, as long as it is conducted impartially.
“Governor Matawalle has consistently demonstrated transparency in his administration, and any independent investigation will only affirm his commitment to the people of Zamfara,” Mansur added.
On the challenges Matawalle faced when he assumed office, Mansur pointed out the severe underdevelopment and security crises that plagued the state.
He explained that the funds in question were used for infrastructure, security, and welfare projects aimed at stabilizing and reviving the state’s economy.
Mansur further argued that the accusations from the APC’s Akida Forum overlook the fact that the loans taken by Matawalle’s administration were subject to legislative oversight.
“These loans were not for personal gain but were directed towards critical development projects for the long-term benefit of Zamfara,” Mansur said.
He called on Nigerians, particularly the people of Zamfara, to remain calm and discerning amid the ongoing allegations, emphasizing that only a fair and transparent investigation will reveal the truth.
“Governor Matawalle has served with honour, and I am confident history will reflect his tenure as one marked by dedication to the welfare and progress of Zamfara State,” Mansur said.
