The All Progressives Congress (APC) chapter in Zamfara State has expressed its disapproval of the protests targeting Minister of State for Defense, Bello Mohammed Matawalle.
A group of demonstrators marched to the headquarters of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) in Abuja, urging an investigation into corruption allegations against the minister.
In a statement issued on Sunday by the Zamfara State APC Publicity Secretary, Malam Yusuf Idris Gusau, the party labeled the protesters as a hired crowd.
The statement refuted the accusations against Matawalle, asserting that if there was any truth to the claims, the EFCC would have already disclosed the details.
The rented crowd, unaware of national laws and judicial processes as they pertain to anti-graft agencies, engaged in a protest fueled by envy and vindictiveness towards Minister Bello Matawalle’s growing popularity.
The EFCC clarified to the sponsored protesters that its mandate is not influenced by personal vendettas, political biases, or ethnic sentiments but is primarily focused on upholding the rule of law and combating financial crimes impartially.
These protests against Matawalle have been orchestrated by his political adversaries, often involving individuals from outside Zamfara State, including one instance from the Southeast region, who were unfamiliar with the routes to Zamfara. The latest protests have involved individuals loitering in the outskirts of Abuja and beggars holding placards they could not comprehend, all targeted against the Minister.
While in Zamfara State, support for the Minister remains unwavering, rendering these failed protests ineffective and embarrassing for the instigators. The APC affirms its solidarity with Matawalle, emphasizing that his detractors are envious and their attempts to discredit him will be futile.
Minister Matawalle, as the APC leader in Zamfara State, remains resolute in his commitment to advancing the state and Nigeria. The party stands by him and is prepared to defend President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s policies and initiatives at all levels.
The Minister is urged to continue his endeavors towards ensuring peace and security nationwide, enabling citizens to conduct their lawful activities without fear of violence or abduction. It is imperative for him not to be swayed by anti-progress forces that do not have the best interests of Zamfara State and Nigeria at heart.