From:Femi Oyelola in Kaduna
The Concerned Northern Forum (CNF) has urged the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to intensify efforts in investigating former Zamfara State governor Bello Matawalle, noting multiple petitions and earlier commitments by the agency.
The CNF Chairman, Alhaji Aliyu Muhammad Sani, made the call during a press conference in Kaduna yesterday, saying that the delay is “raising serious questions” about its independence and willingness to go after powerful individuals.
He disclosed the group—alongside other civil society bodies—had submitted petitions as far back as May and September 2024, detailing how Matawalle allegedly mismanaged over N290 billion in state funds during his tenure from 2019 to 2023.
“We, the Concerned Northern Forum find it crucial to convene for a conference to openly call on the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission to proceed with the corruption case initiated by the Commission before the 2023 general elections.
“We have seen the EFCC take bold steps against other former governors and ministers. So we are asking: why the silence in this case? Who is shielding Matawalle from investigation?
“We have gathered facts and figures regarding Bello Matawalle’s alleged embezzlement of billions of Naira. He reportedly needs to account for over N290 billion from the FAAC and N133 billion from the JAAC that he received from 2019-2023.”
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