The All Progressives Congress (APC) Forum has formally apologized to the Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle, retracting its earlier protest and calls for an investigation into his tenure as Governor of Zamfara State.
Speaking at a press conference in Abuja on Friday, APC Forum spokesperson Benjamin Yaksat said “We are not indigenes of Zamfara State and were sponsored by the Governor Dauda lawal to protest against the Minister of State for Defence, Dr. Bello Matawalle,” Yaksat said.
He clarified that the current press conference was not sponsored by anyone, including the minister, emphasizing, “This press conference is sponsored by the All Progressive Forum, in case anyone suggests otherwise.”
He revealed that the group had expelled members who led the protest at the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) office.
Yaksat stated that a committee was set up to investigate the incident, and it was discovered that financial inducements had influenced the protest.
“We have withdrawn our protest and will not engage in such actions again,” Yaksat added.
The forum admitted that its allegations were unfounded and driven by personal interests, particularly dissatisfaction with the perceived distribution of state resources.
“Unfortunately, greed clouded our judgment, leading us to make false accusations against Matawalle,” Yaksat acknowledged.
Ibrahim Muhammad, the forum’s convener, also praised Matawalle for his role in combating banditry in the northwest region, commending his leadership and bravery as key to restoring hope to the area.
“We commend Matawalle for his strategic leadership in the fight against banditry,” Muhammad said. “His efforts are crucial to Nigeria’s security, and we urge him to continue his work.”
The forum encouraged its members to adopt a renewed sense of integrity and pledged to work for the betterment of Zamfara State. They also expressed gratitude for Matawalle’s forgiveness.