An old video of Nigeria’s Minister of Defense (State), Bello Matawalle, has resurfaced, sparking controversy. In the clip, Matawalle, speaking in Hausa, alleges that members of the All-Progressives Congress (APC) are either thieves and bandits.
He goes on to claim, “Check, you’ll see weapons in their houses.”
Matawalle, who now holds a key position within the APC-led government under President Tinubu, made these comments prior to joining the ruling party. The resurfacing of the video has led to renewed debate, with many citing it as an ironic twist of fate or “karma” given his current role within the APC.
Political Accountability and Transparency
Matawalle’s had claims that APC members are involved in criminal activities such as banditry and theft have intensified calls for accountability within the party. The opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) had also urged the APC to respond to these allegations, emphasizing the need for transparency regarding past governance issues under Matawalle’s administration.
Impact on Governance and Security Policies
The allegations have further complicated the already fraught relationship between the current PDP-led government and the APC. Governor Dauda Lawal has accused Matawalle of failing to address security challenges during his tenure, which has now been exacerbated by these new claims. The ongoing blame game between the two parties may hinder effective governance and collaborative efforts needed to combat insecurity in Zamfara, as both sides focus on political maneuvering rather than addressing the root causes of banditry.
Legal and Investigative Ramifications
Matawalle’s accusations may prompt legal scrutiny and investigations into the activities of APC members, particularly regarding their alleged connections to banditry. This could involve agencies like the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), which is already examining past administrations for financial mismanagement. Such investigations might uncover further evidence or lead to legal consequences for implicated individuals, thereby impacting their political careers
The clip has sparked discussions on social media, with users questioning the Minister’s previous stance and its contrast with his current political alignment.
