The presidency has opened up on
the probe and suspension of Acting Chairman of the Economic and Financial
Crimes Commission (EFCC), Ibrahim Magu.
President Muhammadu Buhari’s
spokesman, Garba Shehu, in a statement on Saturday, said a series of documented
allegations were made against Magu and several staff of the agency.
He noted that following a
preliminary review of the allegations, there were grounds for a detailed
investigation to be conducted.
This he explained, led to the
constitution of an investigative panel in compliance with the extant laws.
“As is the proper procedure, when
allegations are made against the Chief Executive of an institution, and in this
case an institution that ought to be seen as beyond reproach, the Chief
Executive has to step down from his post and allow for a transparent and
unhindered investigation.”
The presidency stated that the
EFCC does not revolve around the personality of an individual, and as such
cannot be seen through the prism of any individual.
“Therefore, the suspension of Mr.
Ibrahim Magu, allows the institution to continue carrying out its mandate
without the cloud of an investigation hanging over its head.
“The EFCC has many good,
hardworking men and women who are committed to its ideal and ensuring that the
wealth of our country isn’t plundered and wherein there is an act of
misappropriation such person(s) are brought to justice.”
The statement said Magu is being
availed the opportunity to defend himself and answer the allegations against
him.
“This is how it should be, as is
the fact that under the Laws of Nigeria every citizen is presumed and remains
innocent until proven guilty.”
Nigerians were told to realize
that the fight against corruption is not a static event, but a dynamic and
ever-evolving process, in which the EFCC is just one actor.
“What is however important is
that there must be accountability and transparency and our people must realize
that they would be held to account.
“This is the building block in
the fight against corruption, the establishment of the concept of
accountability and the recognition of the Rule of Law.
“Those who see Mr. Magu’s
investigation, as a signal that the fight against corruption is failing, have,
unfortunately, missed the boat.
“There is no better indication
that the fight is real and active than the will to investigate allegations in
an open and transparent manner against those who have been charged to be
custodians of this very system.
“Under this President and
Government, this is our mantra and guiding principle. There are no sacred cows,
and for those who think they have a halo over their heads, their days are also
numbered.
“Mr. Magu was not immune – and
regardless of the obvious embarrassment that potential acts of wrongdoing by
him, given the office he held, may appear for the government.
“No other administration in the
history of Nigeria would have moved to bring into the light and public domain
such an allegation”, it added.
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