***Finger Tinubu’s Enemies, Zamfara Gov Behind Desperate Antics To Blackmail Minister
The Independent Human Rights Monitoring Groups in Nigeria (IHRMGN) has cleared Minister of State for Defence Bello Matawalle of banditry allegations.
The group said its four-month investigation found accusations orchestrated by Zamfara Governor Dauda Lawal and President Bola Tinubu's enemies to be baseless and politically motivated.
In a statement co-signed by Dr. Moses Adah and Rev. Oduma Johnson, the group condemned Governor Lawal's "desperate antics" and urged caution against misinformation.
According to the group, those who should be held accountable for sponsoring bandits have turned around to peddle falsehoods against persons working hard to bring about peace in the region.
The group further said that banditry in Zamfara is complicated because of the economic interest of the supposed chief executive office of the state which is an interested party as far as the crime is concerned.
From its investigation, the group further revealed that the Governor has spent over 10 billion naira working with the bandits just to safeguard his interest.
The statement noted that Matawalle's exemplary leadership as the immediate-past governor of Zamfara State and Minister has earned him recognition and respect.
However, the group said it found out that his successor, Governor Lawal, has made it a priority to frustrate and discredit him.
The Independent Human Rights Monitoring Groups in Nigeria, therefore, demanded accountability from those involved in the smear campaign and urged Governor Lawal's administration to cease spreading misinformation.
They also warn Governor Lawal and his allies that their actions will not go unnoticed by the international community.
The statement said: "The Independent Human Rights Monitoring Groups in Nigeria wishes to address the recent allegations against the Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle. After conducting a thorough and independent investigation spanning four months, we hereby clear Matawalle of any links to banditry.
"These baseless accusations, orchestrated by Governor Dauda Lawal of Zamfara State and enemies of President Bola Tinubu, are politically motivated, aiming to discredit Minister Matawalle ahead of the 2027 governorship election. Our findings indicate that Governor Lawal's administration has consistently spread false information to undermine Matawalle's reputation.
"The Independent Human Rights Monitoring Groups in Nigeria condemn the desperate antics employed by Governor Lawal and his associates. We urge the public to be cautious of misinformation and propaganda. It's essential to rely on verified sources of information to ensure accuracy and fairness.
"Matawalle's exemplary leadership as the immediate-past governor of Zamfara State earned him recognition and respect. However, his successor, Governor Lawal, has made it a priority to frustrate and discredit him. This smear campaign is unacceptable and undermines the integrity of Nigeria's political landscape.
"We stand by our findings and reaffirm Matawalle's innocence. The Independent Human Rights Monitoring Groups in Nigeria remain committed to promoting truth, justice, and human rights. We demand accountability from those involved in the smear campaign and urge Governor Lawal's administration to cease spreading misinformation.
"We warn Governor Lawal and his allies that their actions will not go unnoticed. The international community is watching, and their attempts to blackmail Matawalle will only serve to tarnish their reputation. We urge the governor to focus on addressing the real issues affecting Zamfara State, rather than resorting to petty politics.
"We urge the Minister you to remain focused on your duties and not let these baseless allegations distract you. His commitment to serving Nigeria is evident, and we commend his dedication. Continue to uphold the values of integrity and transparency that have defined your career."