Economic and Financial Crimes Commission has appealed for patience as it promised a detailed and thorough investigation into the alleged N70 billion corruption case against the Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle, while he was governor of Zamfara State from 2019 to 2023.
The commission insisted that probes into corruption cases, including the case of Matawalle, require thoroughness.
Spokesperson for the anti-graft agency, Dele Oyewale, stated this, yesterday while speaking to members of Tinubu Youth and Women Network, who protested EFCC’s delay in the probe of Matawalle.
The protesters said they were formally requesting the EFCC to reopen the investigation into the corruption allegations against Matawalle.
Led by Aliyu Yunusa, the group noted that its primary focus was to collaborate with the government to identify and address incidents of corruption within the system to ensure transparency and accountability.
He said, “We are committed to working towards the eradication of corrupt practices by actively engaging in efforts to hold those who engage in corrupt activities accountable. Matawalle served as the Governor of Zamfara State from 2019 to 2023. During his tenure, there were allegations of mismanagement of public funds and resources.”
“It is on record that on May 18, 2023, the EFCC, through its then Director of Media and Public Affairs, Osita Nwajah, said it was investigating Matawalle over allegations of massive corruption, award of fictitious contracts, and diversion of over N70 billion.”
The group urged EFCC to investigate the matter and bring justice to those responsible for the mismanagement of public funds. “This will serve as a deterrent to others considering engaging in corrupt practices in public office, especially considering what happened to the humanitarian affairs minister (Beta Edu).”
But the EFCC spokesman observed that the protesters’ demand would be communicated to the commission’s chairman, Ola Olukoyede, adding that the right thing would be done concerning the matter.
