The Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA), has strongly condemned what it called “an orchestrated smear campaign by the All Progressives Congress (APC) Akida Forum against Minister of State for Defence, Dr. Bello Mohammed Matawalle, calling for an immediate halt to the dissemination of baseless allegations tarnishing the minister’s reputation.
In a statement made available to Blueprint in Abuja, Tuesday, signed by the National Coordinator, Comrade Emmanuel Onwubiko, the association emphasised that the attacks on Minister Matawalle, led by the APC Akida Forum, represent 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.
HURIWA particularly condemned the recent protest staged by the APC Akida Forum at the headquarters of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), demanding the prosecution of Minister Matawalle over alleged financial mismanagement during his tenure as Governor of Zamfara State.
The association denounced the protest as an attempt to subvert the rule of law and undermine principles of justice.
In view of Matawalle’s leadership style for its emphasis on humility, integrity, and genuine commitment to public service, HURIWA commended him as a valuable asset to the administration of President Bola Tinubu. The association urged against any attempts to undermine his contributions to national security and governance.
HURIWA urged the public to reject the baseless allegations propagated by the APC Akida Forum and called for an end to the smear campaign against Minister Matawalle, emphasising the importance of upholding principles of justice, fairness, and accountability in addressing allegations against public officials.
