The Zamfara State government has authorized a raid on the residence of the immediate-past governor, Muhammad Bello Matawalle, resulting in the impoundment of several vehicles believed to belong to the government. The raid, conducted by the police, targeted Matawalle’s residence in Gusau, which is located near the Government House.
This action follows recent accusations made by the incumbent Governor Dauda Lawal, who claimed that Matawalle had taken away 17 vehicles from his office, as well as office equipment from the deputy governor’s office, asserting that they were personal belongings. As part of the ongoing investigation, four jeeps have been seized during the raid.
Governor Lawal has been vocal about the alleged misappropriation of government vehicles and the looting of property, including televisions and cookers, from the State Government House and the State Liaison Office in Abuja. In a statement released through his spokesperson, Sulaiman Idris, Lawal issued an ultimatum of five days for Matawalle to return the vehicles purportedly taken by officials of his administration.
The governor emphasized his determination to recover the looted funds and state government properties, citing records and evidence that expose Matawalle’s alleged impropriety. He highlighted a contract awarded by the former governor for the purchase of vehicles, including bulletproof models and luxury cars, amounting to N1,149,800,000. The contract was awarded to Hafkhad Properties and Facilities Management Nig. Ltd.
Lawal’s administration has officially communicated the demand for the return of the missing vehicles within the specified timeframe. While the Zamfara State government spokesperson, Sulaiman Bala Idris, stated that he was unaware of the raid order, he acknowledged that the police were carrying out their duties.
As this situation unfolds, questions surrounding the accountability and use of government resources continue to mount, putting the spotlight on the actions and responsibilities of past and present political figures in Zamfara State.
