Corruption: Nigerian Professor Urges President Tinubu To Investigate Political Appointees

A former Dean, Postgraduate School of the University of Ilorin, Professor Badmas ‘Lanre Yusuf has urged President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to beam searchlight of investigation on Ministers and other appointees suspected to have misappropriated public funds in their care.

The call came on the heels of the suspension of the Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, Beta Edu. She allegedly authorised the release of about N585m meant for disbursement to vulnerable groups in selected States into an individual’s bank account.

Yusuf, a Professor of Islamic Studies, said this in his sermon delivered at Hilal Crescent Mosque, Offa Road, GRA, Ilorin.

He said; “the extension of investigation into appointees of government and those who perceive public funds as business as usual, may reveal many others who enmeshed in corrupt practices.”

Yusuf noted that it was pathetic that the country has continued to face setback over the years due to the disposition of public office holders who failed to see offices as a means to selflessly serve the people but an avenue to enrich themselves at the expense of all.

He cautioned against treating office holders found culpable of corruption as sacred cows, saying such body language would not augur well for the country.

Yusuf, who alluded to the saying of the holy Prophet Muhammad in his sermon over how authorities in time past shielded the nobles that committed crimes, warned that the people would bear the brunt.

He explained that “the nation can only experience development in all its spheres if the treasury looters are identified and punished for their crime.”

Commendation

Yusuf commended President Tinubu for directing the suspension of the Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation over allegation bordering on abuse of office, adding that he acted in line with the expectation of the citizenry.

He said; “Our government should act in accordance with the sayings of Prophet Muhammad in bringing Nigerian looters to book. If we want to move forward, any thief in our midst, should be removed. Don’t shield and treat them like sacred cows.

“Just like the people before you, when noble people stole, they covered them up. That was one of the reasons they perished.”

“Mr President did the right thing by suspending a serving minister, who allegedly authorised payment of public fund into private bank account, thus observing due process in breach.

“Unfortunately for enemies of Nigeria, they started to lobby and propagate, and asked for amnesty for a thief.

“We appeal to President to beam searchlight around other ministers and those who are there thinking it is going to be business as usual,” he added.

Mercy Chukwudiebere