By Nkechi Eze
The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) has secured the conviction of Mr. Rabiu Musa Matazu, Director of Administration at the Sokoto Rima River Basin Development Authority (SRRBDA), for diverting public funds to his personal use.
In a statement signed by the Commission’s Director of Public Enlightenment and Education, Demola Bakare, it was revealed that Matazu was arraigned before Honourable Justice Abbas Bawule of the Katsina State High Court in Suit No. KTH/7C/2022 on a four-count charge bordering on criminal breach of trust and abuse of office.
According to ICPC Prosecutor, Mr. Ibrahim Garba, the case centred on Matazu’s receipt of ₦305,000 from his subordinate, Mr. Lawal Dan Sarki. The money was rent proceeds from properties owned by SRRBDA in Katsina State, but instead of remitting it into the agency’s account, Matazu misappropriated the funds for personal use.
One of the charges stated that Matazu, in October 2014, used his position as Director of Administration to confer undue advantage on himself by converting the rent proceeds to his private benefit, an offence contrary to and punishable under Section 19 of the Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Act, 2000.
The defendant pleaded not guilty to all counts, leading to a full trial that spanned three years. However, in his judgment, Justice Bawule found him guilty on all charges and convicted him accordingly. The court sentenced Matazu to six months imprisonment or a fine of ₦20,000 on counts one to three, and five years imprisonment without an option of fine on the fourth count. The sentences are to run concurrently.
The ICPC described the conviction as a strong reaffirmation of its determination to hold public officials accountable and to ensure that public office is not exploited for personal gain.
