“As we speak, many more influential Nigerians are on the radar of the EFCC and, in the coming weeks, they would have their days in court and Nigerians will be kept fully abreast of the results of our investigations.”
Ibrahim Magu who spoke today at the maiden interaction with online publishers, said that since assuming office as the chairman of the Commission, he had tried to infuse a new life on the war against corruption.
“This I have done primarily by re-ordering EFCC’s priorities. The effect, which is obvious for all to see, is the investigation, arrest and prosecution of some of the most powerful forces in Nigeria, who have questions to answer on their stewardship whilst in office.
“A former National Security Adviser, former ministers, former governors serving and retired military men, a media mogul and several others are among those we have called to answer critical questions power on to the management of our commonwealth.”
Ibrahim Magu swore that in fighting corruption, he is being guided by the fear of God, national interest and the rule of law, adding that apart from bringing corrupt public officers to justice, he is determined, in line with the stance of the current administration, to send a unmistakable message to everyone, that no Nigerian shall be regarded as being above the law or treated a scred cow as far as the fight against corrupt is concerned.
The EFCC boss said that the commission is lucky to have the backing of all the arms of the government in the onerous task of war against corruption.
“By far more inspiration is the political will of Mr. President to foght corruption. This unbending will, which some now call body language, has given needed traction to the anti-graft campaign.
“The President’s resolve is closely mirrored by that of the Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), Justice Mahmud Mohammed, who, during the last All Nigerian Judge’s Conference, declared unwavery support of the judiciary under him, for the war on corruption.
“At that same Judges Conference, Mr. President had expressed the concern of the Nigerian people for the undue delays experienced in the trial of corrupt suspects.
“The judiciary has responded with some practical steps in the form of the designation of selected courts to try EFCC cases and some practice directions. We believe that when holistically and effectively cut the time corruption cases spend in court before Nigerians know whether the accused is guilty as charged or innocent of the crime.”
He sought for the collaboration of the media, particularly the Online publications in the renewed war against corruption, adding: “the EFCC needs you; Nigeria needs your critical support if we are to make any headway in this important campaign against corruption. My pleas for your support is underscore by my understanding that the forces which we are battling are powerful and some of them may want to use all platforms of the media to distract and derail us. If and when they do come to you, please allow the ethics of your profession, your conscience and overriding national interest be your guide.”
Ibrahim Magu stressed that media would lose credibility if the practitioners allow their platforms to be used by unscrupulous individuals who have reasons other the national interest as their motivation. [myad]
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