The Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA) has reacted to recent allegations made by Zamfara State Governor, Dauda Lawal, against the Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle.
Governor Lawal had accused his predecessor, Matawalle, of sponsoring banditry, a claim that has sparked controversy.
The accusations arose after a memo surfaced on social media, allegedly showing how the government has been making payments to bandits.
In a televised interview on TVC, Lawal suggested that Matawalle should resign to clear his name, citing his involvement in bandit activities.
In response, HURIWA, through a press release signed by its National Coordinator, Comrade Emmanuel Onwubiko, condemned Governor Lawal’s decision to publicly air what they termed “unsubstantiated allegations.”
The rights group questioned why the governor chose to make such serious accusations on television rather than taking concrete action if he had reliable information.
HURIWA expressed concern that the allegations could be politically motivated, aimed at damaging the reputation of Matawalle, especially if Governor Lawal fails to provide credible evidence to back his claims.
“If the governor possesses such information, he should pursue legal action instead of resorting to media appearances,” the statement said.
Governor Lawal also accused Matawalle of leaving Zamfara’s treasury in a poor state, stating that over N250 billion was unaccounted for when he assumed office.
However, HURIWA argued that these claims lacked “concrete evidence,” calling them a “mere attempt to tarnish Matawalle’s reputation.”
The association urged both Lawal and Matawalle to focus on their respective roles, reminding the public that Matawalle is a key figure in the Federal Government’s ongoing efforts to combat terrorism, particularly in the North-West region.
They further advised the Zamfara governor to prioritise addressing the state’s pressing issues, rather than engaging in what they described as political battles ahead of the 2027 elections.
HURIWA criticised Lawal for allegedly misusing state resources in his disputes with his predecessor, accusing him of diverting attention from the state’s critical security and economic challenges.
“While this fight persists, Zamfara continues to suffer from insecurity, poverty, and economic instability,” the statement read.
The rights group also brought to light the public outrage over reports that Governor Lawal’s administration approved N19 billion for kitchen equipment for the office of the First Lady, Huriyya Dauda Lawal.
Critics have condemned this spending as extravagant, given the widespread poverty and displacement in the state.
HURIWA questioned the transparency and accountability surrounding such an expenditure, particularly when compared to the achievements of Matawalle’s administration.
The group stressed that it would be “illogical” for Matawalle to be involved in banditry, given his active role in the fight against terrorism.
In conclusion, HURIWA called for greater transparency in government spending, particularly with regard to the N19 billion expenditure.
The association urged both Governor Lawal and Minister Matawalle to set aside political differences and collaborate in addressing the security challenges facing Zamfara and the broader North-West region.
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