The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has pledged to investigate allegations of large-scale financial misappropriation leveled against the Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle, following a formal petition submitted by the All Progressives Congress Young Leaders Alliance (APC-YLA).
During a protest held on Friday at the EFCC headquarters in Abuja, APC-YLA Convener, Mohammed Ireji, led a group of demonstrators demanding the immediate reopening of a corruption probe into Matawalle, who is accused of embezzling over ₦528 billion during his tenure as Governor of Zamfara State.
Ireji criticised the EFCC’s delay in taking action, noting that multiple petitions had previously been submitted, including one by the APC Akida Forum on May 3, 2024, and a follow-up on September 30, 2024.
He stressed that the allegations were based on verifiable financial records and not mere speculation.
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“We have documented evidence showing that billions of naira were misappropriated under his watch as governor. This is not political. It’s a call for justice,” Ireji said.
Receiving the petition, the EFCC’s Acting Director of Security, Idowu Adedeji, assured the protesters that their concerns would be forwarded to the appropriate department for action.
“We have received your petition and we will submit it accordingly,” he stated.
According to APC-YLA, the alleged embezzled funds include ₦290 billion from the Federation Account Allocation Committee (FAAC), ₦133 billion from the Joint Account Allocation Committee (JAAC), and a controversial ₦105 billion loan whose purpose remains unclear.
The group also drew attention to the commission’s recent high-profile corruption cases, including those involving former Minister Betta Edu, ex-Kogi Governor Yahaya Bello, and former Taraba Governor Darius Ishaku, insisting that Matawalle should not be treated differently.
“Selective justice undermines public trust. If these individuals could face prosecution, what makes Matawalle untouchable?” Ireji asked, challenging the EFCC to act without political bias.
While praising the EFCC’s track record in tackling corruption, the APC-YLA urged the agency to apply the same level of commitment to this case.
“We have consistently commended the EFCC for its efforts. Now is the time to prove that no one is above the law,” Ireji concluded.
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