When Nigeria’s anti-graft agencies make headlines, it’s usually because they are parading suspects, announcing arrests, or boasting about recovered billions. But in the case of Bello Matawalle, the former governor of Zamfara State and current Minister of State for Defence, something is eerily different: silence.…….CONTINUE FULL READING>>>>>
Civil society groups and watchdogs have accused the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) of deliberately looking the other way in an alleged ₦250 billion fraud tied to Matawalle’s years in office. And Nigerians are asking: Why the sudden hush?
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The Allegations Against Matawalle
Reports suggest that during Matawalle’s tenure as Zamfara governor, over ₦250 billion in state funds may have been misappropriated through inflated contracts, ghost projects, and suspicious withdrawals.
For a state consistently ranked among the poorest in Nigeria—where insecurity runs rampant, hospitals lack basic drugs, and children study in crumbling schools—the alleged diversion of ₦250 billion is nothing short of criminal betrayal.
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EFCC’s Deafening Silence
The EFCC, known for its aggressive raids and media trials, has been unusually quiet about this case. Why?
Political protection: As a serving minister in Tinubu’s cabinet, Matawalle may be enjoying immunity by association.
Selective justice: Nigeria’s anti-corruption fight has often been accused of targeting opponents while shielding allies.
Backroom deals: Some analysts suggest “settlements” may already have been reached to bury the matter.
Whatever the reason, Nigerians are left wondering: Is EFCC truly independent, or just a political weapon?…….CONTINUE FULL READING>>>>>
