By Sani Idris Abdulrahman
The Northern Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN) has demanded that the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, step aside to allow for an unfettered investigation into allegations of gross misconduct and corruption.
This, was contained in a statement issued to newsmen on Sunday in Kaduna by Isah Abubakar, the National President of the NYCN.
Abubakar described the allegations on Wike as grave, noting that recent credible reports of significant property acquisitions in the United States have compounded the concerns.
He noted that the NYCN firmly supports President Bola Tinubu’s "Renewed Hope" agenda, particularly the administration’s commitment to fighting corruption, but warned that it could be undermined if such allegations on Wike are ignored.
He emphasised that President Tinubu must set a standard for all cabinet members by ensuring they avoid corruption and prevent activities that cast a negative shadow on his government.
The national president explained that a minister entrusted with public funds should not be acquiring vast properties in the United States, as such actions raise serious questions about the source of wealth and whether it is legitimate.
He said the NYCN’s demand is rooted in what it described as a persistent pattern of alleged financial misconduct, pointing to a public petition filed with the Attorney General of Florida accusing Wike of laundering public funds.
He added that the petition, which has been reported by various media outlets, alleged that at least three properties in Winter Springs, Florida, were traced to the minister and his family, stressing the need for a transparent investigation.
Abubakar explained that ongoing legal actions initiated by organizations like the Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) also reinforce the concerns.
He said SERAP has taken Wike to court over the failure to account for trillions of naira in FAAC allocations and billions of naira in loans obtained during his tenure as Rivers State governor.
He noted that although the cases have not yet resulted in a verdict of guilt, they highlight a public official who has been repeatedly questioned on financial dealings and transparency.
Abubakar added that the volume and gravity of the allegations—from lawsuits by civil society groups to foreign property reports—cannot be dismissed as politics but require a full and unbiased investigation.
He emphasised that Wike must step aside to avoid compromising the investigation and to protect the credibility of the administration’s anti-corruption crusade.
He reiterated that the call does not amount to a declaration of guilt but necessary to uphold transparency, accountability, and good governance.
Abubakar, therefore urged President Tinubu to take swift action to ensure that the "Renewed Hope" agenda is not just a slogan but a tangible reality for Nigerians.
No comments:
Post a Comment