EFCC vows to investigate N520 billion allegations against Tinubu’s Minister

EFCC vows to investigate N520 billion allegations against Tinubu’s Minister

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has vowed to look into fresh allegations of corruption involving the Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle, after receiving a petition from the All Progressives Congress Young Leaders Alliance (APC-YLA).

The group, led by its convener Mohammed Ireji, staged a protest on Friday at the EFCC headquarters in Abuja, urging the commission to reopen investigations into Matawalle’s financial dealings during his time as Governor of Zamfara State. The former governor is accused of misappropriating more than ₦528 billion in public funds.

Speaking at the protest, Ireji expressed frustration over what he described as the EFCC’s prolonged silence on earlier petitions, including those submitted by the APC Akida Forum on May 3 and again on September 30, 2024.

He called on the anti-graft agency to act decisively and demonstrate that no public official is above scrutiny, regardless of political affiliation.

He stressed that the allegations were based on verifiable financial records and not mere speculation.

“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.