The Zamfara State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has rallied to defend its leader, former Governor Bello Matawalle, against a wave of allegations that have stirred political discourse in recent weeks. The party has dismissed the claims as baseless and politically motivated, describing them as attempts to tarnish the reputation of a leader who, according to the APC, worked tirelessly for the betterment of Zamfara State during his tenure.
The Allegations
The allegations against Matawalle range from mismanagement of state funds to abuse of office and complicity in the ongoing insecurity issues in Zamfara. Critics have accused the former governor of failing to address key challenges in the state, including unemployment, infrastructure deficits, and banditry, which have plagued the region for years.
Opposition parties and civil society groups have amplified these allegations, calling for investigations and accountability measures. Some groups have gone as far as to demand a probe into the financial records of the Matawalle administration.
APC’s Response
In a press conference held in Gusau, the Zamfara APC chairman, Alhaji Tukur Danfulani, strongly defended Matawalle, asserting that the accusations are a calculated effort to undermine the party’s credibility ahead of upcoming elections. He highlighted the former governor’s achievements, including significant strides in infrastructure development, youth empowerment programs, and efforts to combat insecurity.
“These allegations are nothing but desperate attempts by political opponents to distract from the progress made under Matawalle’s leadership. He inherited a state grappling with severe challenges and took bold steps to address them,” Danfulani stated.
Achievements Under Matawalle’s Leadership
The APC listed several accomplishments attributed to Matawalle’s administration, which they argue refute the allegations of poor governance:
1. Infrastructural Development: Construction and rehabilitation of key roads, schools, and healthcare facilities across the state.
2. Insecurity Management: While insecurity remains a concern, the party credits Matawalle for initiating peace talks with bandit groups and deploying resources to enhance security infrastructure.
3. Economic Reforms: Implementation of policies aimed at boosting agriculture and local businesses to stimulate the state’s economy.
4. Youth and Women Empowerment: Launching skill acquisition programs and providing grants to young entrepreneurs and women to foster economic independence.
The Political Undercurrents
Political analysts see the allegations as part of a broader power struggle in Zamfara State’s political landscape. Since leaving office, Matawalle has remained an influential figure, and his critics perceive him as a significant threat to their political ambitions.
The APC has accused rival parties of orchestrating a smear campaign to diminish Matawalle’s standing among the electorate. “This is not about governance; it is about power. We urge the public to see through this charade,” Danfulani emphasized.
Call for Unity
The Zamfara APC called on party members and supporters to remain united and focused on the party’s agenda. The leadership expressed confidence that the truth would prevail and that Matawalle’s legacy would withstand political attacks.
Conclusion
As the political drama unfolds, the former governor’s fate in the court of public opinion will depend on how effectively he and his party address the allegations. For now, the Zamfara APC’s staunch defense underscores the high stakes involved as the state gears up for future political battles.
The coming weeks will reveal whether this controversy will fade or escalate into a defining moment for Zamfara’s political landscape. For supporters of Bello Matawalle, the focus remains on protecting his legacy and maintaining the party’s influence in the region.
