Northern Forum retracts allegations against Matawalle, lauds achievements
By Austine Agbo Emmanuel, Kaduna
The Concerned Northern Forum (CNF) has retracted its previous allegations against the former Governor of Zamfara State and current Minister of State for Defence, Bello Muhammed Matawalle, after its chairman, Alhaji Aliyu Mohammed, revealed that the group had been misled by opposition sources.
It was previously reported that CNF had called on the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to investigate allegations of financial mismanagement during Matawalle’s tenure as governor.
Addressing a press conference in Kaduna, Mohammed admitted that the information which led to the initial statement calling for an investigation into Matawalle was politically motivated and aimed at undermining the Minister’s reputation.
“I wish to unequivocally state that I was misled by the information presented to me, and the content of the press statement was exaggerated. It was a political witch hunt, orchestrated by opposition elements envious of Matawalle’s achievements,” Mohammed explained.
He went on to acknowledge Matawalle’s significant contributions during his time as Governor of Zamfara State, particularly in security, infrastructure, healthcare, and education.
Mohammed singled out the construction of a new airport, the initiation of key road projects, and improvements to the state’s water supply as some of Matawalle’s notable accomplishments.
“Matawalle served Zamfara State with dedication and success, achieving unprecedented development in sectors such as security, infrastructure, health, economy, and education,” Mohammed added.
He also commended Matawalle’s security initiatives, including the procurement of over 200 Hilux vehicles and ambulances, as well as the installation of solar-powered streetlights in the state capital, Gusau.
In the healthcare sector, Mohammed highlighted the building of primary healthcare centres in all 147 wards of the state, as well as the establishment of a Digital World ICT Centre and a Command and Control Room in Gusau to enhance technology and security.
Additionally, Mohammed praised Matawalle’s efforts in renovating the State House of Assembly, constructing a Governor’s Lodge in Kaduna, and investing in the Best Premier Hotel in Abuja as a state asset.
“We urge the public to focus on Matawalle’s positive contributions and disregard the false allegations circulating about him,” Mohammed concluded.
