Kogi indigenes and concerned Nigerians, under the banner of the “Alliance For Emancipation and True Change,” staged a peaceful protest in the United Kingdom, urging Bola Tinubu to ensure that the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) remains impartial and free from political influence.
They expressed concerns that the EFCC’s handling of corruption allegations against the former Governor of Kogi State suggested political persecution to both Nigerians and the international community.
The protest, held in London on May 20, 2024, emphasized the need for a fair and just prosecution process in accordance with the rule of law.
According to Vanguard, the demonstrators condemned the alleged use of the EFCC by politicians to intimidate and harass perceived opponents, cautioning against the politicization of the Commission’s activities.
They called for a review of the EFCC’s operating procedures to ensure transparency and accountability.
During the demonstration, Dr. Shaibu Ojogbane, Publicity Secretary of the Alliance For Emancipation and True Change, and Chukwunonso Ezeani, Director of Research & Public Affairs, reiterated their support for the government’s anti-corruption efforts.
However, they also called for greater oversight to prevent selective justice and the abuse of human rights.
The group said, “The protest against the former Governor today, apparently sponsored by the Opposition in the state, indicates desperation on their part. We are aware that at least one of the opposition candidates is currently in London.
”Alhaji Yahaya Adoza Bello has restated his readiness to answer questions regarding his period of leadership in Kogi state; all he asks for is that the rule of law be adhered to, as it is glaring that in this particular case, the commission is serving the interest of some powerful Nigerians beyond the eye meets.
”With this in mind, we state without any fear of contradiction that the commission must be called to order without delay.
”We trust that Mr President will act swiftly so this situation doesn’t degenerate into a massive calling out of the government on matters related to selective justice, abuse of human rights and other issues associated therein.”
They urged Tinubu to intervene promptly to prevent further damage to the government’s reputation and ensure the EFCC operates with integrity and impartiality.
The groups claimed that the opposition has been exploiting the EFCC’s activities to malign Governor Bello, even sponsoring ethnic attacks against him abroad.
The protesters emphasized the importance of their peaceful demonstration in support of justice, aiming to prevent Nigerians from being misled by a small group.
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