A human rights activist from Zamfara State, Abubakar Dahiru, has filed a lawsuit at the Federal High Court in Abuja, calling for an investigation into former Governor and current Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle, over allegations of involvement in kidnappings and banditry.
The suit, filed by Dahiru’s legal representative, Ojonimi Apeh, names the President, the Attorney General of the Federation, and the Inspector General of Police as defendants. Filed on September 27, 2024, the case seeks a court directive compelling the President to instruct the IG to investigate the allegations linking Matawalle to banditry and kidnappings in Zamfara State, aiming to restore public safety.
In a 22-paragraph statement, Dahiru highlighted the ongoing wave of armed banditry and kidnappings across Zamfara and the broader North West region. He alleged that these criminal activities escalated between 2019 and 2023, when Matawalle served as governor, resulting in widespread suffering, including the displacement of thousands and the loss of lives.
The activist further claimed that despite open accusations against Matawalle regarding his alleged ties to banditry, no government effort has been made to investigate these claims, while insecurity continues to plague Zamfara State.
