Zamfara Government said it has recovered over 40 vehicles immediate past governor of the state, Bello Matawalle allegedly stole.
Gov. Dauda Lawal had earlier bade Matawalle to return vehicles purportedly belonging to the state government in his possession and cronies or risk trouble.
The governor carried out his threat as police officers at his instance raided his predecessor’s Gusau and Maradun residence to recover the vehicles to the indignation of the leaderahip of the state chapter of All Progressives Congress, who accused the incumbent of abuse of power.
Speaking on the exercise, Suleiman Idris, the Senior Special Assistant on Media and Publicity to Lawal said in a statement; “The Zamfara State Government has cleared the air on the operation of the Nigeria Police Force that led to the recovery of vehicles looted by the former State Governor, Bello Mohammaed Matawalle.
“In the early hours of Friday, The Nigeria Police Force stormed the residence of the former Governor, where over 40 vehicles were impounded.
“The Police acted on a court order and a search warrant was obtained for the operation. Recall that the Zamfara State Government communicated officially to former Governor Bello Matawalle and his Deputy to return all the missing vehicles within five (5) working days.
“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.
“We want to call on the people of Zamfara to remain calm as we continue to record massive improvements in the areas of security and the lingering water scarcity in the state.”
