Mohammed Shosanya
The Code of Conduct Bureau (CCB),is scrutinizing the activities of three former governors, nine former ministers, 14 former legislators, and 17 former heads of parastatals at both federal and state levels, including local government chairmen.
These individuals are being investigated for various graft offenses,according to a CCB commissioner,who also disclosed that letters of invitation have been dispatched, requiring the implicated individuals to report to the CCB headquarters.
This move provides them an opportunity to clarify the sources and legality of their acquired assets,he said.
He added that the investigation encompasses properties and substantial bank accounts, both local and offshore, allegedly acquired through illicit means and linked to the officials, their families, and close associates.
The commissioner explained, “Defaulters are expected to be thoroughly interrogated. If found culpable of breaches or non-compliance, they will be charged before the Code of Conduct Tribunal.
He said,this could lead to the confiscation and forfeiture of their ill-gotten wealth, assets, and properties to the federal government of Nigeria, and they may be barred from holding public office for up to 10 years.
He added:” This rigorous enforcement drive by the CCB aims to uphold the law, which has been undermined by some political figures, appointees, and public servants.
” The initiative is part of a broader collaboration with other anti-graft agencies, endorsed by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu as part of his Renewed Hope Agenda”.
President Tinubu was once summoned by the CCB, leading to his appearance before the Code of Conduct Tribunal, where he was eventually acquitted. This precedent underscores the Bureau’s mandate that all concerned citizens must comply with asset declaration laws.
The commissioner highlighted that notable figures such as former Senate President Bukola Saraki had previously faced the Tribunal for non-compliance, resulting in his acquittal.
