The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has announced the launch of an investigation into accusations of bandit sponsorship involving the Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle, and Zamfara State Governor, Dauda Lawal. Both officials have openly accused each other of backing bandit groups in the region.
Matawalle recently challenged Lawal to swear by the Holy Qur’an that he is not involved in the sponsorship of bandits. In response, Lawal claimed to have reported the matter to National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu and said he has evidence to support his accusations.
During a press briefing, Edward Buba, Director of Defence Media Operations, confirmed that the military and other security agencies are probing the allegations. He emphasized that a formal announcement will be made once the investigation progresses, but for now, the focus remains on defeating the bandits and criminal elements across the country.
Buba stated that winning the war against banditry involves dismantling the enemy’s will to fight, and the military is committed to this objective. He assured that updates on the investigation would be shared soon.
