Nigeria Times

The Progressives Action for Justice, Unity, and Democracy (PAJUD) has strongly condemned the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) for its alleged harassment and persecution of former Kogi State Governor Yahaya Bello.

The group stated its displeasure on how In a shocking display of brazen power and vindictiveness, the EFCC has resorted to using arbitrary court injunctions and Gestapo-style tactics to hound and persecute the former governor.

In a statement to newsmen on Monday, PAJUD Convener, Comrade Musa Abdullahi, described the EFCC’s actions as unethical and scandalous, citing the agency’s blatant disregard for due process and the rule of law. It noted that despite Bello’s willingness to cooperate with the EFCC, the agency has continued to employ desperate tactics to discredit and harm him.

The group claims that EFCC Chairman, Olukayode Olanipekun, has a personal vendetta against Bello, stemming from the former governor’s refusal to secretly visit him through a special entrance gate. This perceived slight they say, has allegedly led to the EFCC’s sustained victimization of Bello, with the agency determined to secure a guilty verdict by any means necessary.

PAJUD criticized the EFCC’s handling of the case, stating that it undermines the principles of justice, fairness, and due process.
The group expressed concern over the EFCC’s direction under Olukayode’s leadership, highlighting the agency’s past successes and its former reputation as a role model for anti-corruption activists.

The statement also urged President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to intervene, citing Bello’s contributions to his 2023 presidential election victory. PAJUD emphasized that the EFCC’s actions are not only a disservice to Bello but also an embarrassment to the Tinubu administration.
Furthermore, PAJUD questioned the EFCC’s motives, suggesting that the agency is pursuing a politically motivated agenda. The group demanded that Olukayode recuse himself from the case, citing his apparent bias and lack of impartiality.

The group however called on the EFCC to allow Bello his day in court, rather than resorting to portfolio injunctions and other underhanded tactics. The group emphasized that Bello, as a bonafide citizen of Nigeria and a stalwart of the All Progressives Congress, deserves the same rights and protections afforded to all citizens.

“The EFCC’s actions against Bello are a blowback to the anti-graft campaign and an embarrassment to the President Bola Ahmed Tinubu administration. We will not allow further breaches of Bello’s rights. The EFCC must redeem and restore its lost glory as a role model for anti-corruption activists.”

In conclusion, PAJUD reiterated its commitment to justice, unity, and democracy, and vowed to continue monitoring the EFCC’s actions in the Bello case. The group urged Nigerians to demand accountability and transparency from the EFCC, ensuring that the agency upholds the principles of fairness and due process in all its dealings.

By Joyce Babayeju

China Machinery Engineering Corporation (CMEC) has provided over 11 tons of food supplies to Borno State government to assist flood victims in the state.

The donation took place on October 10, was presented by senior officials of CMEC to the Borno state governmemt . The governor of Borno state Babagana Umara Zulum, with other top government functionaries in the state were on ground to receive the items.

Recall that Maiduguri, the Borno state capital was recently flooded as a result of the collapse of the Allau dam, leading to loss of lives and property, forcing hundreds of thousands of residents to relocate to safer parts of the state leading to humanitarian crisis.

Speaking during the donation, the Governor of Borno state, Babagana Zulum expressed gratitude for the valuable support provided to the state government and victims of the flood by CMEC

He promised that the state government will spare no efforts to complete the post-disaster reconstruction., Zulum commended the important role of the Maiduguri Emergency Power Plant (MEPP) project undertaken by CMEC in the socio-economic development of the local community, noting that the Borno State government looks forward to more extensive cooperation with CMEC in the future.

Making the donation on behalf of CMEC, Liu Shuai who represented the company noted that as a central Chinese enterprise that has been working in the Nigerian market for many years, CMEC was committed to local people’s livelihood and actively committed to its corporate social responsibilities.

According to Liu Shuai, CMEC, right after the flood not only initiated help for its local staffs but also launched a special assistance plan for people in the local government and victims.

He noted that in addition to the food supplies provided this time, CMEC will continue to increase investment and actively participate in the post-disaster reconstruction work to help the government and people of Borno state to overcome the difficulties as soon as possible