Civic groups have urged President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to take decisive action against corruption within his administration, citing its role in exacerbating the country’s current economic and social hardships.
In a statement released on Thursday, the Umbrella of Kano Concerned Civil Society Groups and the Astute Civil Society for Cultural and Humanity Development expressed concerns about the impact of unchecked corruption on Nigeria’s 250 million citizens.
- Civic Groups Demand Ganduje’s Removal as APC Chair Amid Corruption Allegations
- AI and Automation in Business: Revolutionizing Industries
The groups identified mismanagement, embezzlement, and money laundering by influential individuals as key factors behind the nation’s economic challenges.
The groups particularly criticized the Acting Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, who is facing allegations of corruption from his tenure as Governor of Kano State. They called for Ganduje’s immediate removal from his position to allow for a transparent investigation.
“It is disappointing that the APC, a party claiming to champion the fight against corruption, is being led by someone with such serious accusations. This undermines the party’s credibility and sends a contradictory message to Nigerians,” said Comrade Ibrahim Ali, Coalition Chairman.
The coalition suggested that Ganduje’s removal would demonstrate the government’s commitment to accountability. “If found innocent, he can be reinstated. However, if proven guilty, he must face the consequences of the law,” the statement read.
The groups argued that corruption is a primary contributor to the nation’s economic struggles, which include inflation, unemployment, and a declining standard of living.
They emphasized the need for the President to empower anti-graft agencies to investigate and prosecute all individuals implicated in corruption, regardless of their political or social standing.
“President Tinubu must lead by example and ensure that his administration is free from individuals facing credible corruption allegations,” the statement added.
The groups outlined specific demands for the President calling for the immediate removal of Dr. Ganduje as APC Acting Chairman and full investigation into all corruption allegations against Ganduje and other officials.
They also appointment of a credible and untainted individual to lead the APC and uphold its anti-corruption stance.
The coalition stressed that decisive action against corruption would help restore Nigerians’ trust in the government and its commitment to justice and fairness.
“Nigerians are watching closely. The government must demonstrate its willingness to hold everyone accountable, irrespective of their position or affiliation,” Comrade Ali said.