A group of political mobilisers in Zamfara State has publicly confessed to participating in a coordinated misinformation campaign aimed at discrediting former Governor Bello Matawalle.
Addressing journalists in Abuja, Comrade Aryan Abdul Kareem spoke on behalf of Comrade Olumu Lucky, Comrade Olukayode Williams, Comrade John Osumbor Mark, and Engineer Bashir Muhammad. He admitted that they were directly involved in crafting and circulating false narratives intended to tarnish Matawalle’s image.
Kareem alleged that the campaign was sponsored by individuals within the administration of Governor Dauda Lawal Dare. He claimed that the operation was overseen by the governor’s spokesperson, Sulaiman Bala Idris, who reportedly convened strategy meetings and provided direction throughout the exercise.
According to him, more than ₦500 million was allegedly released to execute the operation. The funds, he said, were used to mobilise political commentators, social media influencers, bloggers, traditional media outlets, and notable figures in Zamfara, including Kabiru Marafa and Sani Abdullahi Shinkafi.
“We were part of that machinery, and we accept full responsibility,” Kareem said. “We circulated content we knew was not true. At the time, we allowed financial inducement and political pressure to overshadow our conscience.”
The group tendered a public apology to Matawalle, his family, and citizens who may have been misled. Kareem noted that they deeply regret the emotional and reputational damage caused.
He also disclosed that the group is ready to cooperate fully with any investigation, adding that they possess documented evidence of meetings and instructions allegedly received from Idris.
“This is not an easy step for us, but it is necessary,” he told journalists. “We want to correct our wrongs and encourage others involved in similar political activities to come forward. Our democracy cannot grow on deception and blackmail.”
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