Nigeria students back due process in Gbajabiamila allegations

Nigeria's National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has urged President Bola Tinubu to resist calls for the removal of his Chief of Staff, Femi Gbajabiamila, over allegations linked to the Presidential Foreign Intervention Promotion Council (PFIPC) controversy. NANS insists that no public official should face sanctions based on claims that have yet to be substantiated.

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The fight against corruption must always be pursued within the bounds of justice, fairness, equity and due process.

In a statement signed by its President, Akinteye Babatunde, NANS stressed its commitment to accountability and the fight against corruption. However, the association emphasized that justice must be pursued through due process, fairness, and adherence to the rule of law, rather than succumbing to public pressure. They are closely monitoring the controversy involving Prince Adeniyi Adeyemi, who allegedly claimed to be the Director-General of the PFIPC.

NANS highlighted that despite the absence of any judicial determination, demands for Gbajabiamila's dismissal have intensified. The association respectfully urged President Tinubu not to allow a dedicated public servant to be "sacrificed on the altar of unsubstantiated accusations before the truth is established." They reiterated that every Nigerian is entitled to the presumption of innocence until proven guilty through a lawful process.

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We respectfully urge President Bola Ahmed Tinubu not to allow a loyal and dedicated public servant to be sacrificed on the altar of unsubstantiated accusations before the truth is established.

The student body also noted the Presidency's clarification that the PFIPC is not an agency under the current administration. Furthermore, the announcement that criminal charges have been filed against Adeyemi for his alleged activities reinforces the need for restraint until investigators establish the facts. NANS called on Nigerians to avoid prejudging the matter and allow security agencies and relevant authorities to conduct a thorough, independent, and impartial investigation.

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These developments further reinforce the need for restraint and affirm the importance of allowing the appropriate authorities to determine the facts through lawful processes.