A coalition of Civil Society for Good Governance (CCSGG) and Kogi Conscience Liberation Movement (KCLM) has urged President Bola Tinubu, the Inspector General of Police, and other agencies to intensify the fight against corruption in the country.
The call comes amid growing frustration over the delay in prosecuting former Kogi State governor, Yahaya Bello, for an alleged ₦80.2 billion fraud.
At a press conference in Abuja, Comrade Okpanachi Jacob, CCSGG’s national coordinator, emphasised the urgency of addressing corruption, stating, “Corruption threatens our socioeconomic and political progress.”
“Delays in prosecuting high-profile cases like that of Yahaya Bello undermine public confidence.”
Jacob highlighted that the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) had served charges to Bello through his counsel, Abdulwahab Muhammed (SAN), on April 23, 2024.
“Over two months have passed, and Nigerians are growing impatient. The lack of decisive action sends the wrong message about our commitment to fighting corruption,” he said.
For his part, Peter Onuwa, KCLM’s national coordinator, echoed the same sentiments, saying: “The EFCC’s efforts are insufficient. Nigerians are losing faith in the fight against corruption, particularly in Kogi State.”
Onuwa further explained, “Corruption has severely impacted Kogi’s economy. High poverty levels and increased crime rates are direct results. Civil servants have become beggars due to eight years of salary shortfalls.”
The groups urged President Tinubu, the IGP, the Department of State Security Services (DSS), and the EFCC to take swift and decisive action. “We call on the authorities to ensure justice is served promptly. The people of Kogi State are desperate for action,” Jacob stated.