Nigeria’s President Muhammadu Buhari has finally spoken out regarding the corruption allegations against embattled chairman of Nigeria’s number one graft agency Ibrahim Magu.

The now former boss of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission EFCC had a few days ago being arrested on charges bordering on money laundering and conspiracy in the looting of recovered funds linked to top government officials.

Following a preliminary review of the allegations leveled against the Ag. Chairman and several other members of his staff, there were grounds for a detailed investigation to be conducted.

Hence, an investigative panel was constituted in compliance with the extant laws governing the convening of such a body.

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.

President Buhari who is known for his hard stance on corrupt practices said the suspension of Mr. Ibrahim Magu, allows the institution to continue carrying out its mandate without the cloud of investigation hanging over its head.

According to the president, the EFCC has many good, hardworking men and women who are committed to its ideal and ensuring that the wealth of the country isn’t plundered and wherein there is an act of misappropriation such person(s) are brought to justice.

“We must 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; and as we continue to work towards improving our democratic process so shall every institution of ours also embark on that journey of evolution.

“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,” President Buhari said.

The president emphasized that 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.

What President Buhari said on Ibrahim Magu’s travails

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