The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has reaffirmed its dedication to thoroughly investigating corruption allegations against the Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle. Speaking on Wednesday at an interaction held at the EFCC headquarters in Abuja with members of the Tinubu Youth and Women Network, a political advocacy group pushing for scrutiny into Matawalle’s alleged corrupt practices, the agency’s spokesman, Dele Oyewale, emphasized their commitment to the probe.
The EFCC is investigating allegations of misappropriation of public funds and resources during Matawalle’s tenure as governor of Zamfara State from 2019 to 2023. The agency initially announced the investigation in May 2023, citing significant corruption, including the award of fictitious contracts and the diversion of over N70 billion.
Members of the Tinubu Youth and Women Network, advocating for accountability in governance, urged the EFCC to reopen the investigation into Matawalle’s alleged misdeeds. Bearing placards demanding action and justice, the group accused the former governor of siphoning billions of naira meant for developmental projects in Zamfara State and called for his prosecution.
Addressing the group’s concerns, Comrade Aliyu Yunusa, the group’s leader, formally requested the EFCC to intensify its probe into Matawalle’s alleged financial misconduct during his tenure as governor. Yunusa emphasized the importance of holding public officials accountable to deter future corruption.
In response, Oyewale assured the group that their message would be conveyed to the EFCC chairman, Ola Olukoyede. He underscored the meticulous nature of anti-corruption investigations, emphasizing the need for thoroughness and diligence. Oyewale assured the group that the EFCC would handle the matter appropriately and following due process.
As the investigation progresses, Nigerians eagerly anticipate the outcome of the EFCC’s inquiry into Matawalle’s alleged corruption. With the agency’s commitment to conducting a comprehensive investigation, many are hopeful that justice will prevail and that those implicated will face the consequences of their actions under the law.
