The Federal High Court in Abuja has granted approval for a lawsuit aimed at compelling the Federal Government to investigate the alleged ties between Alhaji Bello Matawalle, the Minister of State for Defence, and bandit activities in Zamfara State.
The lawsuit was initiated by Abubakar Dahiru, a human rights activist from Zamfara, naming President Bola Tinubu, the Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, and the Inspector General of Police as defendants.
Through his lawyer, Mr. Ojonimi Apeh, Dahiru is requesting the court to declare that President Tinubu should direct the Inspector General of Police to investigate both the banditry and kidnapping crises in Zamfara, particularly focusing on Matawalle’s alleged involvement. The case, labeled FHC/ABJ/CS/1434/2024, seeks to enhance public safety in the area.
Dahiru is also asking the court to issue an order for President Tinubu to instruct the IGP to examine allegations against Matawalle, which include claims of sponsoring bandits, providing vehicles for their activities, and obstructing law enforcement efforts.
The plaintiff has highlighted numerous accusations, referencing statements from Zamfara State Governor Dauda Lawal and various media reports that allege Matawalle’s direct involvement in banditry during his tenure as governor from 2019 to 2023. Dahiru argues that the ongoing issues of banditry and kidnapping have caused significant suffering in Zamfara, resulting in loss of life, displacement of thousands, and widespread economic distress.
Despite the seriousness of these allegations, Dahiru contends that there has been no governmental initiative to investigate Matawalle. He is urging the court to mandate an official inquiry to reveal the truth behind these claims.
The court has yet to schedule a date for the hearing.
