The presidency has issued a statement on why the acting EFCC Chairman, Ibrahim Magu was suspended.
In a statement by the Special Assistant to the President (Media &
Publicity), Garba Shehu, he stated that he had to go to allow for a
transparent and unhindered investigation.
“A series of documented allegations were made against the Ag. Chairman
of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC). 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.
“The EFCC does not revolve around the personality of an individual, and
as such cannot be seen through the prism of any individual.
“The suspension of Mr. Ibrahim Magu, allows the institution to continue
carrying out its mandate without the cloud of investigation hanging over
its head.
“The EFCC has many good, hardworking men and women who are committed to
its ideal and ensuring that the wealth of our country isn’t plundered
and wherein there is an act of misappropriation such person(s) are
brought to justice.
Meanwhile, Mr. Magu is being availed the opportunity to defend himself
and answer the allegations against him. This is how it should be, as is
the fact that under the Laws of Nigeria every citizen is presumed and
remains innocent until proven guilty.
“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.
“Under this President and Government, this is our mantra and guiding
principle. There are no sacred cows, and for those who think they have a
halo over their heads, their days are also numbered.
“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.
“No other administration in the history of Nigeria would have moved to
bring into the light and public domain such an allegation”.
