Atiku demands probe of Gbajabiamila over fresh corruption allegations

Presidential candidate Atiku Abubakar has called for an independent probe into serious corruption allegations leveled against Femi Gbajabiamila, President Bola Tinubu’s Chief of Staff. Abubakar stated that the allegations, which suggest the illegal diversion of oil and gas royalties, are too grave to be ignored and demand thorough investigation.

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This issue goes beyond partisan politics; it’s about the impunity of corruption that undermines the welfare and future of ordinary Nigerians.

In a statement released by the Atiku Media Office, the former vice president emphasized that public officials must be held accountable, irrespective of their positions. He reacted to a report by Peoples Gazette detailing how Gbajabiamila allegedly diverted funds from the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission through what was described as an unlawful presidential approval. Gbajabiamila has not yet publicly responded to these claims.

Abubakar asserted that the matter transcends political affiliations and should be addressed to uphold accountability. "This issue goes beyond partisan politics; it’s about the impunity of corruption that undermines the welfare and future of ordinary Nigerians," he stated. He accused the Federal Government of hypocrisy in its anti-corruption efforts, suggesting that while opposition figures are prosecuted, corruption festers within the administration.

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You can’t preach the rule of law when your own officials are awarded with the trophy of untouchability.

"You can’t preach the rule of law when your own officials are awarded with the trophy of untouchability," Abubakar argued, insisting Gbajabiamila must face an independent investigation to defend himself against the accusations. He referenced the precedent set by former President Buhari, who suspended the then Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Babachir Lawal, to allow for an investigation, urging that Gbajabiamila should not be treated differently.

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Gbajabiamila must be held accountable like every other public official and independently investigated to give him a full opportunity to defend himself against the brazen act of corruption as detailed in the Gazette report.