Former Governor and Tinubu’s Minister Matawalle Accused of Mismanaged Funds in Zamfara

The Zamfara State Government has revealed documents alleging financial irregularities and a breach of public service rules under the former administration of Bello Matawalle. These documents show payments made for the construction, fencing, landscaping, furnishing, and external electrification of Governor’s lodges in the state’s 14 local government areas before the projects even commenced.

In a statement issued by the spokesperson for Governor Dauda Lawal, Sulaiman Bala Idris, it was stated that full payments were made to various contractors for projects that were later abandoned. The documents highlight financial transactions that seemingly defy established guidelines.

The statement outlined the discrepancies in the allocation of funds to different contractors, with some receiving full payment before initiating any work, and others receiving over 90% payment. Notably, one firm, BES BELMON Nigeria Limited, was reportedly paid ₦1,966,035,160.00 for work on Governor’s lodges across all 14 local government areas.

The statement disclosed instances where full payments were made to contractors in several local government areas before work began. These alleged financial irregularities have raised questions about the former administration’s financial management.

The current Zamfara State Government has called for transparency and justice in these matters, urging BES BELMON Nigeria Limited to return the ₦1,966,035,160.00 to the state’s treasury. These revelations aim to ensure accountability and address financial malpractices in the interest of the people of Zamfara.

These findings underscore the commitment of the current administration to reform and rebuild the state by addressing financial mismanagement and promoting transparency in public spending.