Amidst swirling controversy, Defence Minister Bello Mohammed Matawalle has refuted claims of distributing 50 bags of rice to selected bandits in Zamfara state. The allegations, initially circulated by a news blog, were swiftly dismissed by the minister and labeled as a ploy by the opposition to tarnish his reputation.
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According to reports, the alleged distribution of rice was purportedly orchestrated through Honourable Musa Bawa Yankuzo, an accusation vehemently denied by Yankuzo himself. Contrary to the claims, Yankuzo was reported to have been out of the country for Umrah, casting doubt on the credibility of the allegations.
Similarly, Abdullahi Headmaster, accused of storing the rice, has denied any involvement and hinted at taking legal action against the news blog responsible for spreading the false information.
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In response to the allegations, Zamfara Newsletter, a local news platform, has lambasted the accusations as a desperate attempt by the opposition, particularly the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), to discredit Minister Matawalle. The platform alleged that the story was amplified by one Abdul Balarabe, a media aide to Zamfara state governor Dauda Lawal.
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Meanwhile, the Arewa Youth for Peace and Security has criticized Governor Lawal for allegedly neglecting security issues in the state, particularly in light of the recent reports linking Matawalle to the provision of food supplies to wanted bandits.
As the controversy continues to unfold, the Defence Minister remains steadfast in his denial of the allegations, emphasizing his commitment to upholding law and order in Zamfara state.
