“Recall that the Zamfara State Government has communicated officially to former Governor Bello Matawalle and his deputy to return all the missing vehicles within five working days,” the statement said.
By Jeffrey Agbo
Zamfara State Government has alleged that 40 vehicles belonging to the government were recovered from the residence of former governor Bello Mattawalle in his hometown in Maradun.
Matawalle’s residence was raided by the police and officers of the Department of State Services.
Incumbent Governor Dauda Lawal, during his inaugural speech, expressed disgust that his predecessor took away many vehicles and left an empty treasury.
In a statement on Friday in Gusau, the spokesperson for the governor, Sulaiman Idris, revealed that the police acted on a court order and a search warrant was obtained for the operation.
The statement read in part, “Recall that the Zamfara State Government has communicated officially to former Governor Bello Matawalle and his deputy to return all the missing vehicles within five working days.
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“We also lodged an official complaint with the police on overriding public interest on wasteful looting of valuables including official vehicles.
“Consequently, the police sought a search warrant, which was duly given by the court and hence raided Matawalle’s residence in Gusau, Maradun Local Government, and another unidentified hideout.
“Over 40 vehicles were recovered, including three bulletproof vehicles and eight SUVs.
“We want to reaffirm our commitment to recover all that belongs to the people. Our common resolve is to rescue and rebuild Zamfara. Recovering the proceeds of crime and public assets is a critical part of our rescue mission.”