By Yemi Shola, Bauchi
Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Senator George Akume has been advised to resign “honourably” from office in the wake of allegations of misappropriation of public funds to the tune of N80billion linked to him.
A nascent group, ‘The Voice of the Voiceless Nigerians,’ in a statement on Wednesday also called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to suspend the SGF within seven or their members will take to the streets to protest, joining others in demanding accountability and transparency from the government.
The group said it believes that the SGF’s alleged involvement in such a large-scale financial scandal undermines the current administration’s anti-corruption efforts.
In a statement signed by Olaoluwa Tosin, the ‘Voice of the Voiceless Nigerians’ expressed disappointment that despite the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) investigating the matter, no action has been taken against Senator George Akume or his aide, Mr. Torhile Uchi, who was arrested and interrogated.
The statement noted that it is unacceptable for verifiable cases of corruption to be swept under the carpet especially in an administration that has pledged to fight corruption.
The group emphasized that Senator Akume’s suspension is necessary to allow for a thorough investigation into the allegations.
The ‘Voice of the Voiceless Nigerians’ pointed out that the EFCC had uncovered evidence of an N80 billion money laundering case, which it stated that cannot be ignored, just as it demanded accountability and transparency in the investigation and prosecution of the case.
Comparing Senator Akume’s situation to that of former SGF, Babachir Lawal, who was removed from office over a relatively minor offence, the group questioned why the current SGF has not been held accountable for his alleged actions.
They warned the EFCC to provide regular public update on the case within seven days or face nationwide protests, emphasizing that Nigerians are watching the case closely and expect the anti-graft agency to demonstrate its commitment to fighting corruption.
The organization however reaffirmed its support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration but cautioned that shielding corrupt officials would undermine the anti-corruption drive, urging the President to take decisive action against Senator Akume immediately to show that it is serious with its anti-corruption drive.
