Forum apologises to Matawalle over EFCC protest

The Forum of All Progressives Congress (APC) on Friday formally apologised to the Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle, retracting its earlier protest and calling for an investigation into his tenure as Governor of Zamfara State.

The forum also noted that the group had expelled members who led the protest at the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) office.

Spokesperson of the forum, Benjamin Yaksat, made the apology in Abuja during a press briefing.

He clarified that the current press conference was not sponsored by anyone, including the minister, stressing, “This press conference is sponsored by the All Progressive Forum, in case anyone suggests otherwise.

“We have withdrawn our protest and will not engage in such actions again.”

Yaksat stated that a committee was set up to investigate the incident, and it was discovered that financial inducements had influenced the protest.

The forum admitted that its allegations were unfounded and driven by personal interests, particularly dissatisfaction with the perceived distribution of state resources.

“Unfortunately, greed clouded our judgement, leading us to make false accusations against Matawalle,” Yaksat acknowledged.

In his remarks, the forum’s convener, Ibrahim Muhammad, also praised Matawalle for his role in combating banditry in the northwest region, commending his leadership and bravery as key to restoring hope to the area.

He said: “We commend Matawalle for his strategic leadership in the fight against banditry. His efforts are crucial to Nigeria’s security, and we urge him to continue his work.”

The forum called on its members to adopt a renewed sense of integrity and pledged to work for the betterment of Zamfara State, expressing gratitude for Matawalle’s forgiveness.