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Court Approves Suit Demanding Probe of Defence Minister, Matawalle Over Banditry Links
The case, marked FHC/ABJ/CS/1434/2024, was brought before the court by human rights activist Abubakar Dahiru from Zamfara State, with President Bola Tinubu, the Attorney General of the Federation, and the Inspector General of Police named as defendants.
Through his counsel, Mr. Ojonimi Apeh, the plaintiff requests the court to declare that President Tinubu must instruct the Inspector General of Police to investigate banditry and kidnapping activities in Zamfara, particularly concerning allegations against Minister Matawalle.
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The plaintiff is also seeking a court order compelling Tinubu to direct the IGP to address these issues to restore public safety in the state.
Furthermore, the plaintiff asserts that, per Sections 215(3) and (4) of the Nigerian Constitution, the President has the authority to direct the IGP regarding public safety matters.
Matawalle
In a detailed 22-paragraph statement, the plaintiff claims that armed banditry and kidnapping have surged alarmingly in Zamfara, particularly during Matawalle’s governorship from 2019 to 2023. He emphasizes the severe impact of these crimes on the local population, leaving many orphans, widows, and homeless.
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Dahir cites a recent interview with Governor Dauda Lawal, where allegations were made against Matawalle regarding his involvement with kidnappers. He also refers to an article by Umoru Faruk Salifu, which accuses Matawalle of sponsoring bandits and obstructing law enforcement efforts.
Despite these serious allegations, the plaintiff claims that the government has failed to investigate Matawalle, allowing banditry and kidnapping to persist, negatively affecting citizens.
The court has yet to schedule a hearing for the case.
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