Jane Salihu
Chairman of the Governing Board of the National Youth Service Corps, NYSC, and APC chieftain, Ntufam Hilliard Eta, has called on the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, and other relevant agencies to thoroughly investigate allegations and petitions concerning former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar.
Speaking to journalists at a press briefing, Eta, who is also a former National Deputy Chairman, South-South, of the All Progressives Congress, APC, said the allegations should not be treated as proof of guilt but subjected to proper investigation, allowing the courts to determine whether any offence was committed.
He referenced historical allegations involving financial transactions, offshore companies and alleged movement of public funds, as well as a 2010 United States Senate report and petitions submitted to Nigerian anti-corruption agencies.
Eta stressed that his demand was not for Atiku to be convicted in the court of public opinion, but for the evidence to be independently examined.
He urged the EFCC and other relevant agencies to obtain necessary records, trace financial transactions where required and establish the facts without fear or favour.
The APC chieftain warned against selective justice, saying accountability must apply equally to politicians in government and opposition.
He said Nigeria must reject both political persecution and trial by media, insisting that “the evidence should speak, institutions should investigate, and the courts should decide.”
Eta maintained that a transparent investigation would strengthen public confidence in Nigeria’s democratic and anti-corruption institutions.
