Pelumi Olajengbesi, a prominent human rights lawyer and activist, has urged the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to conduct a thorough investigation into all members of the cabinet and appointees who served during the tenure of former President Muhammadu Buhari. In a statement released on Friday, Olajengbesi emphasized the importance of the anti-corruption agency undertaking a comprehensive audit of financial transactions involving officials from the Buhari administration.
As the Managing Partner of the Abuja-based law firm, Law Corridor, Olajengbesi underscored the necessity of such an investigation in light of recent revelations regarding significant financial mismanagement arising from the trial of former Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Godwin Emefiele, who is currently facing charges related to a $6.2 million fraud case.
Olajengbesi’s call for a thorough probe reflects his commitment to accountability and transparency in governance. By advocating for scrutiny into the financial activities of past government officials, he seeks to uphold the principles of integrity and justice.
The mention of Godwin Emefiele’s trial underscores the gravity of the situation and the urgency of addressing alleged financial misconduct within the government. Olajengbesi’s statement serves as a reminder of the importance of holding public officials accountable for their actions, regardless of their positions of power.
Given Olajengbesi’s reputation as a respected legal practitioner and activist, his plea for an intensive investigation is likely to resonate with the public and government authorities alike. It highlights the need for transparency and accountability in governance, particularly concerning financial matters.
The call for a comprehensive probe reflects broader concerns within Nigerian society regarding corruption and mismanagement of public funds. Olajengbesi’s advocacy amplifies the voices of those demanding accountability and underscores the importance of combating corruption at all levels of government.
As the EFCC considers Olajengbesi’s request, there is a growing expectation among the Nigerian populace for swift and decisive action to address allegations of financial misconduct within the Buhari administration. This underscores the significance of ensuring that public officials are held to account for their stewardship of public resources.
In making this call, Olajengbesi reaffirms his commitment to upholding the rule of law and defending the rights of ordinary citizens. By challenging the status quo and demanding accountability, he seeks to promote transparency and integrity in Nigeria’s governance systems.
“The audacity of those in power and their criminal influence is becoming too much and must be stopped,” he stated.
“The EFCC must not stop at just the former CBN Governor Godwin, Emefiele, but should carry out an entire audit of principal actors who served under the administration of former President Muhammadu Buhari. There should be a deterrent for bad behavior.”
Apart from Emefiele, Olajengbesi also said the Commission should extend investigations into the activities of the suspended CEO of the Rural Electricfication Agency, Ahmad Salihijo.
“Again, the case of the suspended Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of the Rural Electrification Agency, Ahmad Salihijo over alleged N1.2bn fraud is fresh, and a pointer to the gross abuse of power by those who served under Buhari.”
“Emefiele and all those who served under the Buhari administration should be properly audited and given a chance to clear their names as the corruption that manifested under that government is gargantuan.”
He however, commended the agency for exposing the alleged forgery of Buhari’s signature and that of ex-Secretary General of the Federation, Boss Mustapha, by the embattled former CBN Governor in the alleged fraud which has been linked to the last general elections.