EXCLUSIVE: Former Aide Alleges Defence Minister Matawalle Maintains Ties With Zamfara Bandits, Used Them to Influence APC Votes
Story: written by Uzuh Rita November 20,2025
A former senior aide to Defence Minister and ex-Zamfara Governor Bello Matawalle has accused him of continuing relationships with notorious bandit leaders in Zamfara State, claiming the minister funded, equipped, and politically mobilised them during his tenure as governor.
In an exclusive interview with SaharaReporters, the whistleblower—whose identity is being withheld for security reasons—revealed a network of financial, political, and operational links connecting Matawalle to terror commanders, alleging that some of these connections persisted even after Matawalle joined President Bola Tinubu’s cabinet.
The former aide claimed Matawalle bought stolen cattle directly from bandits, particularly during festive seasons, paying a flat rate of N150,000 per animal to avoid public exposure. He also alleged that the minister provided 36 brand-new Hilux vehicles to leaders of armed groups, including Kachallah Turji and the late Halilu Sububu.
“Bandit leaders were invited to the Government House in Zamfara and briefed on political matters, including directives to compel communities to vote for him,” the whistleblower said, describing how these arrangements influenced APC’s performance in elections.
The source further claimed that Matawalle maintains contact with prominent terror figures, such as Bello Tugoje, Bello Turji, and Kachallah Haru Dole, via WhatsApp, using these ties to retain political leverage ahead of the 2027 elections.
SaharaReporters had earlier reported that Matawalle insisted most bandit leaders and their foot soldiers had been neutralised, adding that only scattered elements remain. He praised troops of Operation FANSAN YAMMA for their efforts in decimating bandit formations across the Northwest, assuring them of continued presidential support for logistics, equipment, and welfare.
The report comes as security challenges persist in the region. The Kebbi State Police confirmed the abduction of 25 students from Government Girls Comprehensive Secondary School in Maga, with one staff member killed and another injured during the attack.
