From Abdullahi Alhassan, Kaduna
The Patriots for Peace and Social Development expressed concern over the sensational headline in the Saturday Vanguard of September 28, 2024, titled “Banditry Allegation: Court okays suit to compel FG to probe ex-Gov Matawalle,” authored by Ikechukwu Nnochiri. The group criticized the report for failing to specify the court and judge involved.
In a statement signed by the group’s Executive Director, Dr. Sani Abdullahi Shinkafi (Wamban Shinkafi), he described the report as misleading and called it “deliberate fake news aimed at tarnishing public perception of national security issues.”
Shinkafi clarified that the suit, filed at the Federal High Court in Abuja, has not been assigned to any judge, let alone heard or determined. He emphasized that publishing such a headline without court proceedings was reckless, citing the constitutional presumption of innocence under Section 36(5) of the 1999 Constitution.
He criticized *Vanguard* for engaging in “media trial” and urged the paper to provide the court order and details of the case. Shinkafi called on media regulatory bodies, including NPAN, NUJ, and the National Media Complaints Commission, to investigate the misleading report and take appropriate actions.
Shinkafi further stated that ongoing investigations by the Defence Headquarters and security agencies will exonerate the Minister of State for Defence, Dr. Bello Matawalle, from baseless allegations spread by political opponents.
He urged President Bola Ahmed Tinubu not to be swayed by political intrigue, highlighting Matawalle’s rising influence in Zamfara State and his commitment to national progress.
Shinkafi concluded by calling for an end to media trials and urged the minister to remain focused on serving the nation.