Zamfara State Governor Dauda Lawal has claimed that the former governor, Bello Matawalle, was deeply involved in banditry during his tenure. In an interview with Television Continental (TVC) on September 18, Lawal alleged that Matawalle housed bandits in the state government house. He called for Matawalle to resign from his position as Minister of State for Defence, stating, "If I were him, I would resign and address all the allegations against me. It would be more honorable."
Lawal highlighted concerns about Matawalle's actions during his governorship, including claims that a ransom was paid through the government house when Matawalle’s children were abducted. He criticized President Bola Tinubu’s decision to appoint Matawalle as Defence Minister, deeming it unfair to the people of Zamfara. Lawal emphasized that Matawalle should step down to clear his name before resuming his duties. "It would be more honorable to face these allegations and then return to his role," he added. Matawalle served as Zamfara's governor from 2019 to 2023.