Bello Matawalle, the Minister of State for Defence and former governor of Zamfara state, has strongly denied accusations of supporting banditry. In a recent interview on Channels Television, he challenged his accusers, including Governor Dauda Lawal, to present any evidence backing their claims.

Matawalle emphasized that his approach to negotiating with bandits was not unique, as other governors, such as those from Niger and Sokoto States, also engaged in dialogue. He highlighted that these efforts led to the recovery of abducted individuals and weapons. However, he believes he is being singled out because Zamfara has a reputation for complex and deeply rooted issues.

He further claimed that the accusations were politically motivated, asserting that his accusers, including prominent politicians like General Ali Gusau and Dauda Lawal, were involved in the same activities they accuse him of.

Matawalle stated that he is the only governor who took an oath on the Quran to prove he has no ties to banditry. He challenged other politicians to take the same oath, hinting that their refusal is evidence of their guilt.

“Let them swear like I did if they are innocent. If I have any involvement in these crimes, may God not grant me even a second of life,” he boldly declared. His statement came after ongoing political attacks accusing him of benefiting from the ongoing insecurity in the state.

Matawalle defended his dialogue approach, stating it achieved notable results, including the release of thousands of abductees, without paying any ransom. He also claimed that his fearless stance against criminals in Zamfara made him a target for those involved in illegal activities.

“Those who are against me are the ones benefiting from crime,” Matawalle remarked, confirming that the people opposing him are mostly politicians.

Governor Dauda Lawal had accused Matawalle of embezzling over N70 billion during his term as governor. Matawalle denied these claims, calling them fabricated stories meant to discredit him. He urged Lawal to focus on improving governance and addressing the state’s security challenges instead of spreading lies.

“In my four years, I did not take any money. The records are there to prove it. Dauda should concentrate on good governance rather than deceiving the public with lies,” Matawalle concluded.

As Zamfara continues to struggle with security issues, the political tension between Matawalle and Lawal intensifies. While accusations fly, both leaders must focus on addressing the core issues of banditry and insecurity affecting the people of Zamfara.