You’ve bandit as minister — Zamfara gov reports defence minister to NSA

The Governor of Zamfara State Dauda Lawal, has alleged that the Minister of State for Defence, Mr Bello Matawalle is involved in the banditry tearing the State apart.

Lawal revealed that both President Bola Tinubu and National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, are aware of Matawalle’s reported ties to bandit groups tormenting Zamfara.

The controversy arises after Matawalle, a former Zamfara Governor, denied any affiliation to bandits in the state.

While speaking on Channels Television, Matawalle challenged both Governor Lawal and retired General Ali Gusau to swear by the Holy Quran that they have no involvement in the banditry affecting Zamfara and the North-West region.

The Minister defended his decision to engage in dialogue with the criminal elements during his time as Governor, stating that other governors from states like Niger, Sokoto, and Katsina had also entered similar negotiations to address the violence.

But Governor Lawal’s spokesman, Mr Sulaiman Idris, dismissed Matawalle’s claims, stating that evidence against him will soon be made public.

Idris stressed that Lawal had already sworn by the Quran and expressed his desire for justice to prevail against those behind banditry.

However, the unfolding situation highlights the escalating tensions and accusations surrounding the alleged involvement of government officials in addressing the security challenges posed by banditry in Zamfara State.

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