The Presidency has made it clear that in fighting corruption, no one, not even the embattled former Acting Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crime Commission (EFCC), Ibrahim Magu is immune.“Under this President (Muhammadu Buhari) 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.”
Senior Special Assistant to the President on media and publicity, Malam Garba Shehu, in a statement today, July 11 reacting to a series of documented allegations against Magu, said that no government in the history of Nigeria would have moved to bring into the light and public domain such an allegation.
“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.”
Garba Shehu said that following a preliminary review of the allegations leveled against Magu and several other members of his staff, there were grounds for a detailed investigation to be conducted.
“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.
“Therefore, 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.”
The Presidential spokesman said that Magu is being availed the opportunity to defend himself and answer the allegations against him, adding that under the laws of Nigeria, every citizen is presumed and remains innocent until proven guilty.
According to him, what is important is that there must be accountability and transparency, stressing that every government officer must prepare to 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.”
