The Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA) has called for an immediate halt to allegations tarnishing the reputation of Minister of State for Defence, Dr Bello Mohammed Matawalle.
HURIWA in a statement advised Matawalle to explore litigation to silence those spreading defamatory falsehoods against him.
The association’s national coordinator, Emmanuel Onwubiko, emphasised that the attacks on Matawalle, led by one APC Akida Forum, represented a troubling trend of politically motivated calumny aimed at undermining the integrity of public officials.
HURIWA expressed concern over the tactics employed by the APC Akida Forum, cautioning against the proliferation of unsubstantiated allegations for political gain.
The group, particularly condemned the recent protest staged by the group at the headquarters of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), demanding Matawalle’s prosecution over alleged financial mismanagement during his tenure as Governor of Zamfara State.
It denounced the protest as an attempt to subvert the rule of law and undermine principles of justice.
Emphasising the need for impartiality and due process in addressing allegations against public officials, HURIWA called for evidence-based investigations and cautioned against the weaponisation of law enforcement agencies for political purposes.
The association urged the EFCC to refrain from being manipulated by political interests and uphold its mandate impartially.
“We caution the EFCC against embarking on or encouraging frivolous protests against public office holders under the guise of issuing public assurances,” HURIWA said.
“The EFCC must uphold its mandate impartially and refrain from being manipulated by political interests seeking to settle scores or undermine legitimate government officials.
HURIWA called “for a resolute stance against baseless accusations and stand ready to provide unwavering support in affirming Minister Matawalle’s exemplary service and contributions to national security and conflict resolution.”