Go After Buhari’s Cabinet Members, Gov. Matawalle Dares EFCC

Governor Bello Matawalle of Zamfara State has called on the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to expand its investigations to include officials of the Presidency and members of the outgoing Federal Executive Council (FEC).

Governor Matawalle made this statement in response to remarks attributed to Abdulrasheed Bawa, the Chairman of the anti-graft agency, who stated that the EFCC had sent invitations to all outgoing governors and commissioners to initiate investigations.

Matawalle asserted that such investigations should not be limited to outgoing governors and commissioners but should also include individuals working at the Presidential Villa. He further urged the EFCC Chairman to ensure that the investigation is free from political bias and that all those implicated in corruption are brought to justice.

In a statement, Governor Matawalle expressed his concerns, stating, “While it is appropriate and commendable for political office holders to be held accountable for their actions in office, the power of investigation bestowed upon the EFCC must be exercised judiciously. The investigation should be comprehensive and not selective. The recent invitations and statements made by the EFCC Chairman are unbalanced, incomplete, hypocritical, and unnecessarily skewed.”

Governor Matawalle emphasized the need for a more inclusive approach, suggesting that similar invitations should be extended to officers of the Presidency and members of the Federal Executive Council, as they hold the highest positions in the government. He also hinted at having evidence of corrupt practices and misconduct against the EFCC Chairman himself and called for transparency and non-selectivity in the investigation process.

Governor Matawalle concluded by stating that only when the EFCC Chairman demonstrates openness, non-selectivity, and inclusiveness in his invitations will he be taken seriously. He highlighted the importance of serious-minded officers, who have served the public with integrity, being open to scrutiny and expressed hope that such an approach would provide Nigerians with the accountability they deserve in these challenging times.