Governor Bello Matawalle of Zamfara State has made a shocking allegation against the chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Abdulrasheed Bawa. In an interview with BBC Hausa Service, Governor Matawalle claimed that Bawa demanded a bribe of $2 million from him. He further asserted that he possesses evidence to substantiate his claims, casting doubt on the trustworthiness of the EFCC chairman.
This accusation comes after Governor Matawalle called for Bawa’s resignation, citing concerns of alleged corruption. In response, the EFCC chairman refuted the allegations, stating that he had nothing to hide and urged Matawalle to submit a formal petition if he had any evidence against him.
Governor Matawalle expressed frustration at the disproportionate focus on governors in matters of financial impropriety, highlighting that the federal government also handles significant funds. He questioned the actions of the EFCC chairman towards federal officials and challenged him to reveal evidence against those at the federal level.
The Zamfara State Governor firmly stood by his claims and stated that if Bawa were to step down from his position, numerous individuals would swiftly come forward with evidence of bribes they allegedly paid to the EFCC chairman. Matawalle emphasized that he possesses evidence of the $2 million bribe request made to him by Bawa during a meeting held in a specific location.
Governor Matawalle’s allegations against the EFCC chairman have ignited a contentious dispute, casting doubts on the integrity and credibility of the anti-corruption agency’s leadership. The outcome of this situation remains uncertain, but it has further intensified the ongoing discussions surrounding corruption in Nigeria’s public institutions.
The revelations made by Governor Matawalle shed light on the complex dynamics of corruption allegations and the challenges faced in addressing systemic issues within the country’s governance structures. As this controversy unfolds, it underscores the critical need for transparency, accountability, and the fair investigation of corruption allegations at all levels of government