Presidency Sends Anti-corruption Agencies To Investigate The Sacked Bashir, Oke

The presidency has, yesterday said that the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), and the Independent Corrupt Practices and other related offences Commission (ICPC), will go ahead to investigate the sacked Secretary to the Government of the Federation, SGF, Babachir Lawal and former Director General of the National Intelligence Agency, NIA, Ambassador Ayo Oke.

The Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media and Publicity, Malam Shehu Garba in a statement last night said that President Buhari was committed to the rule of law and will not shield anyone from investigation.

Garba said that for those who had asked what next after Babachir and Oke were axed from their positions, that the President has taken the administrative action.

According to him, “All other actions will be taken by relevant government agencies. The position of the President therefore is that investigation agencies which have already commenced the investigation of the two officers removed from office will go on with their work of investigation without any interference or hindrance.”

“The President who is fully conversant with the provisions of the constitution will not stop the investigation of anyone because he has no such power under our laws. This is a decision of the Supreme Court.”

“The President under our laws can, through the Attorney General enter a nolle prosequi to stop an on-going trial. He may upon conviction, order a pardon.”

“Beyond these, the president cannot order investigation agencies to not investigate anyone and does not intend to do in this, or any other circumstance.

“Based on his wish and desire for a strict observance of the law, the President expects the EFCC, ICPC and such agencies to proceed with ongoing investigations. When and where they have reasonable grounds to charge former or serving officers to court under our laws, they do not require the permission of the President to do so.”