CISLAC condemns the arrest of Kano PCACC Chairman Muhuyi Magaji, calling on the IGP to resist political manipulation and uphold Nigeria’s anti-corruption efforts. The Civil Society Legislative Advocacy Centre (CISLAC) has strongly criticized the recent arrest and subsequent release of Muhuyi Magaji Rimingado, the Executive Chairman of the Kano State Public Complaints and Anti-Corruption Commission (PCACC). The arrest, carried out by the Inspector General of Police (IGP) Monitoring Unit, has raised serious concerns about political interference in Nigeria’s fight against corruption. In a statement, CISLAC described the arrest as a glaring example of “corruption fighting back,” warning that such actions threaten to derail Nigeria’s collective anti-corruption efforts and weaken public trust in state institutions. Arrest Allegedly Linked to High-Profile Investigation According to CISLAC’s Executive Director, Comrade Auwal Musa Rafsanjani, the circumstances surrounding Rimingado’s arrest point to political manipulation. He noted that the arrest appears connected to PCACC’s ongoing investigation into properties allegedly linked to a prominent member of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). Reports indicate that Rimingado was detained on Friday evening over the seizure of assets suspected to be proceeds of crime. Although he was released on bail the same night, Rimingado was instructed to report to the Force Headquarters in Abuja for further questioning on Monday. Call for Police Neutrality Rafsanjani urged the Inspector General of Police to ensure the integrity of his office remains intact by resisting political interference. He emphasized, “The Inspector General of Police must not allow his office to be used by desperate politicians to undermine anti-corruption efforts or shield powerful individuals from legitimate investigations.” The CISLAC leader expressed concerns that such politically motivated actions not only damage the credibility of Nigeria’s anti-corruption institutions but also erode public confidence in law enforcement. He warned that this undermines the global perception of Nigeria and could deter international investors. Upholding Nigeria’s Anti-Corruption Framework CISLAC reiterated its commitment to transparency and accountability while calling on law enforcement agencies to resist undue political pressure. Rafsanjani further stated that such interference jeopardizes President Bola Tinubu’s administration’s pledge to uphold good governance, transparency, and accountability. The organization urged the Inspector General of Police and all relevant authorities to uphold the rule of law, ensuring that justice prevails and that Nigeria’s anti-corruption framework remains strong and effective. READ ALSO: Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Chanel.
AIG Adegoke Fayoade advises newly promoted police officers to maintain integrity, avoid corruption, and focus on safeguarding lives and property while improving community relations. The Assistant Inspector General of Police (AIG) overseeing Zone 2 Command, AIG Adegoke Fayoade, has called on newly promoted Assistant Commissioners of Police, Chief Superintendents of Police, and Superintendents of Police to maintain professionalism and avoid misconduct in their duties. Speaking at the decoration ceremony for 33 newly elevated officers from the Lagos and Ogun State Police Commands, held at the zonal command’s conference hall, AIG Fayoade emphasized that promotion comes with greater responsibilities. He urged the officers to focus on safeguarding lives and property within their areas of assignment. Acknowledging the recent promotion of over 2,000 officers from the rank of Superintendent of Police (SP) to Chief Superintendent of Police (CSP) as a milestone achievement, he commended the Inspector General of Police and the Police Service Commission for their support and encouragement. AIG Fayoade advised the officers to resist any form of corruption, warning against extorting the public. He encouraged them to remain diligent and dedicated to their duties, assuring that good service would be recognized and rewarded. He further reminded the officers of their critical role in protecting national security and improving the public perception of the police force. He stressed the importance of positive community relations, urging them to engage the public respectfully and demonstrate kindness while fulfilling their duties. READ ALSO: Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Chanel.
Former Nigerian President Olusegun Obasanjo has reiterated that for Nigeria’s anti-corruption efforts to succeed, the battle must start with accountability at the highest levels of leadership. Speaking during a virtual interactive session titled “Boiling Point Arena” on Sunday night, Obasanjo highlighted the critical need for transparency among top government officials to inspire a culture of integrity throughout the nation. The session, which was broadcast on private radio stations in Abeokuta, Ogun State, explored Obasanjo’s legacies in government and his perspective on Nigeria’s current state. Corruption: A Hydra-Headed Monster Obasanjo described corruption as a pervasive issue that has deeply infiltrated Nigeria’s social and political fabric. He likened it to a “babariga” (a traditional flowing garment), explaining that corruption’s complexity makes it difficult to tackle without a holistic and consistent approach. “The best way of fighting corruption is starting from the head. That is where corruption has to be fought from,” Obasanjo asserted. He emphasized that the fight against corruption must be a continuous effort, spanning multiple regimes, and should not be treated as a short-term goal. “Corruption is very hydra-headed and eats deep. It’s not a one-day affair, nor a one-regime affair. It has to be consistent, continual, and tackled daily. Once one regime fails to act, corruption spreads even further.” The Role of Leadership in Combating Corruption Obasanjo stressed the importance of recruiting leaders based on merit rather than political or tribal affiliations. He argued that leadership selection must prioritize competence and integrity to ensure effective governance. “Political appointments must be based on merit. Leaders enthroned by God have a higher chance of succeeding than those who impose themselves or are appointed for ulterior motives,” he said. He further clarified that not all leaders are divinely chosen, noting that some leaders emerge through selfish or even malevolent motives, which often leads to failure. Citing the Biblical story of Job, he explained how leadership can also be influenced by negative forces. “While many say all leaders are made by God, I don’t believe that. A leader can also be made by Satan. Leaders placed by God are more likely to succeed than those who impose themselves or are appointed by corrupt systems.” Call for Systemic Change Obasanjo concluded by calling for systemic reforms in leadership recruitment and governance practices. He urged Nigerians to demand accountability and transparency from their leaders, stating that a culture of integrity must be cultivated at the top for it to permeate all levels of society. This session underlined Obasanjo’s enduring belief in the transformative power of good leadership and his unwavering call for a transparent, merit-based governance system to combat corruption effectively. READ ALSO: Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Chanel.
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has terminated the employment of two staff members accused of corruption, marking a significant stride in its internal accountability efforts. This announcement was made by the EFCC Chairman, Ola Olukoyede, during the annual criminal law review conference organized by the Rule of Law Development Foundation in Abuja. Commitment to Integrity Olukoyede reiterated the agency’s commitment to reform and integrity, stating, “You can’t be fighting corruption with dirty hands.” He confirmed that the dismissed employees are currently under investigation, with case files being prepared for their prosecution. He also challenged the public to present evidence of bribery against him, emphasizing his zero-tolerance stance on corruption within the agency. Key Reforms and Improved Practices The EFCC has introduced several reforms to enhance efficiency and transparency. Among these is a revised arrest and detention policy, which discourages overnight detentions during investigations. “I have investigated an entire ministry—ministers, directors, and all—without detaining anyone overnight, yet obtained all the needed information,” Olukoyede explained. Additionally, the agency has streamlined its prosecution process, capping the number of charges in cases at 15 to ensure focus and diligence. Olukoyede emphasized, “No case should fail due to lack of diligent prosecution,” and revealed that he personally reviews case files, especially for high-profile cases. Strengthening the Rule of Law Reflecting on his two-year experience under investigation, Olukoyede noted that this period deepened his understanding of fairness and adherence to the rule of law in EFCC operations. His primary objective, he said, is to foster economic growth while ensuring the agency operates with integrity and morality. He also welcomed public scrutiny, urging critics to offer constructive feedback rather than undermine the institution. Human Rights and Legal Compliance The EFCC has also upgraded its interrogation rooms to align with court rulings, ensuring that investigations respect human rights. The chairman highlighted a recent legal victory for the agency: On November 15, the Supreme Court dismissed a lawsuit by 16 states challenging the constitutionality of the EFCC Act. Justice Uwani Abba-Aji, leading a seven-member panel, ruled that the Act does not require ratification by state assemblies. Rebuilding Public Trust Olukoyede concluded by emphasizing the EFCC’s determination to rebuild public trust in its fight against corruption. He urged Nigerians to engage with the agency constructively and to recognize its ongoing efforts to operate transparently and effectively. Joseph Daudu, coordinator of the Rule of Law Development Foundation, lauded the conference as a vital platform for assessing the criminal justice system’s effectiveness, from crime detection to case adjudication. With these reforms and initiatives, the EFCC aims to bolster its reputation as a credible and transparent anti-corruption body. READ ALSO:

