A group identifying itself as Repented Blackmailers has publicly apologised to the Minister of State for Defence, Dr Bello Matawalle, admitting involvement in a coordinated smear campaign funded by officials of the Zamfara State Government.
At a press conference in Abuja on Saturday, the coordinator of the group, Aryan Abdulkareem, confessed that the operation was sponsored by individuals working under Governor Dauda Lawal, with key directives allegedly issued by the Governor’s spokesperson, Sulaiman Bala Idris.
Abdulkareem said the group was briefed, instructed, and financially empowered to circulate damaging narratives against the former governor.
He claimed that the funding for the operation exceeded N500m, reportedly used to recruit political commentators, social media influencers, mainstream media platforms, and public figures in Zamfara, including Kabiru Marafa and Sani Shinkafi.
“We were part of that machinery. We accepted the roles assigned to us and circulated damaging content even when we knew it was false,” he said.
He described the group’s actions as a betrayal of conscience driven by “political pressure and financial inducement”.
Abdulkareem said the group now recognises the emotional and reputational harm done to Matawalle, his family, and supporters.
“On behalf of my colleagues, I tender our unreserved apology. We ask for the forgiveness of Bello Matawalle and every citizen misled by our materials,” he added.
He listed members of the group including Llums Lucky, Comrade Ol Olukayode Will Williams and Comrade John Osumbor Mark.
The coordinator also said the group was prepared to face any consequences arising from the confession, insisting they possess evidence of meetings and instructions allegedly given by the Governor’s spokesperson.
He added that the group was ready to cooperate with investigations by competent authorities.
According to him, their decision to come forward was driven by a desire to correct past wrongs and encourage others involved in similar activities to speak out.
“Nigeria cannot advance if political actors continue to use deception, blackmail and sponsored attacks as tools for power,” he said.
He thanked journalists and the public for listening, expressing hope that the apology would contribute to building a more honest and responsible political environment.