By Divine Sam
The Federal High Court in Abuja has allowed a lawsuit aimed at compelling the Federal Government to investigate former Governor Bello Matawalle over allegations of banditry in Zamfara State. Human rights activist Abubakar Dahiru filed the suit, asserting that Matawalle was linked to increased banditry during his tenure from 2019 to 2023.
Dahiru’s suit, identified as FHC/ABJ/CS/1434/2024, names President Bola Tinubu, the Attorney General, and the Inspector General of Police as defendants. He claims that during Matawalle’s governorship, armed banditry surged, resulting in significant displacement and loss of life in the region.
The plaintiff’s allegations include claims that Matawalle provided support to bandits, undermined law enforcement, and granted amnesty to terrorists. Despite these serious charges, Dahiru argues that no investigation has been initiated, even as banditry remains a pressing issue in Zamfara.