society
Understanding the hullabaloo behind call for Matawalle’s probe* By Toby Prince
*Understanding the hullabaloo behind call for Matawalle’s probe*
By Toby Prince
“Must we always kill our best?” This poignant question, credited to the late Ken Saro Wiwa, resonates deeply in the current political climate of Nigeria, particularly in the case of Bello Matawalle, the Minister of State for Defence. Matawalle, a former governor known for his vocal advocacy for the common masses, now finds himself at the center of a probe by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC). One can’t help but resonate with Wiwa’s sentiments.
There seems to be an orchestrated campaign to undermine Matawalle’s efforts and derail him from his ministerial duties. It is a lamentable situation where those who are keen on disrupting peace and progress are hell-bent on pulling down those who strive to uphold them. This probe, however, appears to be less about justice and more about political manoeuvring. This move reeks of desperation and hatred, as it is clear that the petitioners are hell-bent on punishing Matawalle for his hardened support for this administration and his unrelenting efforts to combat banditry in Zamfara and other parts of the country.
It is crucial to recognise that Matawalle’s vocal stance against insecurity and his determination to protect the lives and properties of Nigerians have made him a thorn in the flesh of those who benefit from the status quo. His commitment to this administration and his unapologetic support for Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu have earned him the ire of those who seek to undermine the government’s efforts.
Matawalle’s tenure as the governor of Zamfara State from 2019 to 2023 was marked by his relentless efforts to curb banditry and uplift the common masses. His persistence in getting support to combat banditry in the state was frustrated by powerful personalities that traded gains gotten from the continuity of insecurity. His dedication was such that he was ready to lose his immunity for the sake of the people. Now, as the Minister of State for Defence, he continues to serve with the same zeal and commitment. Yet, his detractors seem hell-bent on tarnishing his reputation and derailing his efforts.
The EFCC’s probe into an alleged N70bn fraud during Matawalle’s tenure as governor is a classic example of this. The allegations, based on phantom contract awards and diversion of funds, were brought forth by the Tinubu Youth and Women Network. This group, led by Aliyu Yunusa, has been vocal in its demand for a swift investigation. However, one must question the motives behind this sudden urgency. It is no secret that Matawalle is a vocal and proud supporter of Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu. His unwavering support for the administration has earned him many admirers, but it has also made him a target for those who oppose the administration.
The hurriedly packaged petition against Matawalle seems to be a thinly veiled attempt to punish him for his political affiliations. They have failed to take into account the rigorous process of investigation that a probe entails. But one must ask, is this probe truly about ensuring justice, or is it a tool being used to silence a vocal supporter of the administration? The timing and circumstances surrounding the probe raise serious doubts about its legitimacy.
However, the EFCC’s response to the protesters, calling for a thorough investigation, is a welcome development. It is essential to ensure that any probe is thorough, impartial, and free from political interference. Matawalle’s innocence or guilt must be established through a fair and transparent process, rather than relying on unsubstantiated allegations and malicious petitions.
In a deep cross-examination of precedent occurrences leading to the vile protest, one can undoubtedly conclude that the call for Matawalle’s probe is nothing but a witch-hunt, orchestrated by forces that seek to discredit and silence him. This action is a disservice to a man who has dedicated his life to serving the people. More of a classic case of shooting the messenger, as Matawalle’s efforts to address the root causes of insecurity have exposed the complicity of some powerful individuals and groups. The petitioners, hiding behind the cloak of anonymity, are attempting to divert attention from the real issues, and creating a distraction from the progress being made in the fight against insecurity. This is a blatant attempt to discredit his efforts and undermine his contributions.
In light of this, we must revisit and reaffirm our commitment to the fundamental principles of justice and fairness, which are the very cornerstones of our society. Every individual, including Matawale, is inherently entitled to the inviolable presumption of innocence until proven guilty, a sacrosanct right that must be upheld at all costs. We must resist the temptation to rush to judgment based on unsubstantiated allegations and instead allow the due process of law to unfold unhindered, permitting the truth to emerge organically. While the allegations of corruption are grave and warrant a thorough investigation, they must not be exploited as a political weapon to settle scores or silence dissenting voices. Matawale’s detractors, in their zeal to discredit him, have failed to recognise his unyielding resilience and unwavering dedication to his duties. Despite the allegations and the ongoing investigation, Matawalle continues to serve with unrelenting passion, remaining steadfast in his role as the Minister of State for Defence and persisting in his advocacy for the welfare of the common masses, a testament to his unshakeable commitment to the greater good.
Matawalle’s achievements as a former governor and his current efforts as Minister of State for Defence speak volumes about his dedication to the Nigerian people. His commitment to transparency and accountability has earned him the respect and admiration of many. It is, therefore, ludicrous to suggest that he is suddenly unfit for office or that he has become corrupt overnight.
In conclusion, the probe against Bello Matawalle appears to be more of a political vendetta than a genuine pursuit of justice. A handy work of political jobbers, whose unpatriotic pursuit is only based on selfish reasons and self-aggrandizement. It is a clear example of how political rivalries can overshadow the true purpose of institutions like the EFCC. Instead of being used as a tool for justice, the EFCC is being used as a weapon in a political battle. This is not only unjust to Matawalle but also undermines the credibility of the EFCC. The EFCC would do well to prove this obvious narrative wrong.
Matawalle’s probe is nothing but a desperate attempt to discredit a vocal and effective leader. This is nothing short of a witch-hunt, rather than a genuine desire for accountability. We must not allow the forces of hatred and desperation to succeed in their efforts to undermine the progress being made in the fight against insecurity. Matawalle’s commitment to Nigeria and its people is unwavering, and we must stand with him against those who seek to destroy our country.
As we ponder on Ken Saro Wiwa’s question, “Must we always kill our best?” we must also ask ourselves, “Must we always let political rivalries overshadow the pursuit of justice?” The answer, undoubtedly, should be a resounding “No.” Let us transcend the mundane and divisive realm of petty politics, and instead, unite in our support for those selfless individuals who are tirelessly dedicating themselves to the noble pursuit of our nation’s advancement.
***Prince is a communication expert based in Abuja.
Land grabbers invade FGC Kano…. Old Students
The Federal Government College Kano Old Students Association (FGCKOSA)
wishes to formally draw the attention of the President of the Federal Republic of
Nigeria, His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, to a deeply troubling
development involving the proposed concession of approximately 30 hectares of
land within Federal Government College Kano under a Public-Private Partnership
arrangement.
We state, with utmost concern, that this initiative represents a destruction of a
national educational legacy carefully built and handed over to the current
generation of leaders. Unity Schools were established as symbols of excellence,
integration, and nation-building. Any action that diminishes their integrity reflects
a troubling disregard for the power of education as a driver of national progress.
At a time when nations across the world are investing more in education
infrastructure and expanding capacity, it is deeply alarming that we are instead
dismantling and commercializing existing assets meant for learning. This
proposed development signals a shift away from long-term educational value
toward short-term commercial interests.
It is also important to note that the alumni community has, over the years,
collectively invested billions of naira in the development of the College—
consistently funding infrastructure, supporting academic programs, and
strengthening the institution without taking any portion of school land or
seeking anything in return. This record reflects a deep, selfless commitment to
the school’s growth and sustainability.
Furthermore, the alumni has formally established a dedicated foundation focused
on the perpetuation of the College and the advancement of academic
excellence, with plans to raise ₦5 billion at its official launch in June 2026. This
demonstrates that credible, mission-aligned funding alternatives already exist without compromising the intergrity of the school
Our objections are as follows:
1. Misuse of Educational Land for Commercial Gain:
The proposed project is fundamentally a residential and commercial real
estate venture. This constitutes a clear diversion of federally designated
educational land into private hands, undermining the original purpose for
which the land was acquired.
2. Threat to Student Safety and Academic Environment:
The introduction of a mixed-use estate sharing boundaries with the school
exposes students to avoidable risks and erodes the controlled, secure
environment required for effective learning.
3. Irreversible Damage to School Capacity and Future Growth:
The land identified for this project includes critical open spaces necessary
for recreation, expansion, and future development. Any project that
reduces the capacity of the school to grow, expand, and improve its
facilities cannot, in any form, be considered beneficial to the institution.
4. Fundamental Question of Necessity:
Why Federal Government College Kano land? Kano State is one of the
largest states in the country, with abundant land available for real estate
development. There is no justification for appropriating land from an
existing educational institution when alternatives clearly exist.
5. No Tangible Benefit to the School:
There is no scenario under which this land-swap PPP arrangement
benefits the school. On the contrary, all available evidence suggests that
the project is structured primarily for private commercial gain. We are
compelled to state that this raises serious concerns that the promoters
intend to rip off the government and the Nigerian people under the guise
of a PPP arrangement.
Your Excellency, this matter goes beyond a single institution. It raises a
fundamental question about our national priorities: whether we will protect and
strengthen our educational institutions, or allow them to be gradually eroded.
We therefore respectfully call on the President to:
• Immediately cancel the proposed PPP land concession;
• Protect the sanctity and integrity of Unity Schools nationwide
*Ensure that no action is taken that compromises the future of education
in Nigeria.
We also strongly advise members of the public to refrain from purchasing or
investing in any land or property associated with this scheme, as it is under
serious dispute and may be overturned, exposing buyers to financial loss.
FGCKOSA wishes to make it clear that we will not relent in pursuing all lawful and
legal avenues to overturn this illegal arrangement. We remain committed to
safeguarding the legacy of our institution and ensuring that it continues to serve
future generations.
Signed,
Shoyinka Shodunke
President
Federal Government College Kano Old Students Association (FGCKOSA)
Revival Atmosphere as Dominion City Launches Night of Glory 2026.
Lagos – The atmosphere was charged with faith, worship, and expectancy as Dominion City’s Global Camp Meeting 2026 entered its peak with the first day of the “Night of Glory,” drawing thousands of worshippers to Lagos and Enugu in a powerful display of spiritual revival.
Held at the Golden Heart Place, Ajah, Lagos, the Friday evening gathering marked a significant moment in the ongoing six-day conference themed “Redigging the Wells of Our Fathers.” Participants from across Nigeria and beyond converged both physically and online, united by a shared hunger for divine encounter and transformation.
From the outset, the meeting was characterised by intense worship sessions led by gospel ministers, creating an atmosphere many attendees described as “tangible with God’s presence.” The night quickly transitioned into sessions of fervent prayers, prophetic ministrations, and teachings centred on restoration, healing, and spiritual awakening.
Presiding over the meeting, Dr. David Ogbueli, founder of Dominion City, charged participants to reconnect with foundational truths and spiritual disciplines necessary for personal and societal transformation. He emphasised that the “Night of Glory” was designed as a moment of divine visitation where destinies could be reshaped.
“As we redig the wells of our fathers, we are reconnecting with ancient graces and covenant realities that produce undeniable results,” he declared.
As the night unfolded, several remarkable testimonies were shared, reinforcing the theme of supernatural intervention. Among them was the case of a 14-year-old girl who was reportedly delivered from a seven-year struggle with pornography addiction, an experience that drew emotional reactions from the congregation.
Other testimonies included reported healing from cancer, recovery from a severe skin infection attributed to spiritual affliction, the healing of a heart-related condition, and three years of a non-menstrual period. Attendees also recounted instances of restored hearing and sight, with individuals testifying to improvements from partial deafness and blindness, among others.
Fathers of faith present were Barrister Emeka Nwankpa, Pastor Yemi Ayodele, Rev. Pade Tokun, Apostle Gbenga Adegbenro, Rev. Mike Adegbile, and others. Other Ministers present, including Pastor Dr. Charles Ndifon, Pastor Randy Mitchell, Apostle Ikechukwu Nnajiofor, and others, reinforced messages of faith and the power of God to intervene in human situations. They encouraged worshippers to remain steadfast and receptive, noting that miracles often spring from an atmosphere of unwavering belief.
Beyond the miraculous, the gathering also underscored a broader call to moral and spiritual renewal. Church leaders reiterated the need for believers to embody values that can positively influence society, especially in a time of perceived moral decline.
The “Night of Glory” is part of the larger Global Camp Meeting, which began on April 1 and will run through April 6, featuring daily teachings, leadership sessions, and specialized programmes for youths and families.
Organisers say expectations remain high for the second night, with many believing that the wave of miracles and transformation witnessed on the first night is only the beginning.
For many attendees, however, the message was clear beyond the signs and wonders; the true essence of the gathering lies in a renewed commitment to live transformed lives and impact society. //END.//
Easter: Obasa Urges Christians To Embrace Hope, Unity, Renewal
The Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Mudashiru Obasa, has congratulated Christian faithful in Lagos and across Nigeria on the celebration of Easter, urging them to draw strength from the lessons of Christ’s resurrection.
In his Easter message, released by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr. Dave Agboola, Obasa described the season as a reminder of victory over despair, renewal after trials, and the triumph of light over darkness. He noted that just as Christ overcame death, Nigeria can overcome its current challenges if citizens remain steadfast, prayerful, and committed to unity.
“Easter is a season of hope and renewal. As a nation, we face economic pressures and security concerns, but the resurrection teaches us that no situation is beyond redemption. Let us roll away the stones of division and despair, and work together for peace, justice, and prosperity,” the Speaker said.
He called on Lagosians to continue to show love and compassion to one another, stressing that collective effort is key to building a stronger Lagos and a better Nigeria.
Obasa prayed that the joy of Easter would fill homes with renewed faith and guide both leaders and citizens toward a brighter future.
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