Afenifere Demands Suspension Of SGF George Akume Over Corruption Allegations Involving Aide

The Afenifere, Yoruba socio-political organisation, has called on President Bola Tinubu to immediately suspend the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Senator George Akume over allegation of corruption coordinated by his aide.  

It will be recalled that operatives of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) had arrested and interrogated one Mr. Torhile Uchi, a Senior Special Assistant to the President, attached to the office of the SGF. 

However, the case has not progressed well and no punitive measures were meted on the suspect, a development many attributed to the interference and influence of Senator George Akume in an attempt to cover his involvement.

In a strongly worded statement signed by Dr. Bayo Adenuga, a factional publicity secretary of Afenifere, the group tasked President Tinubu to demonstrate his commitment to fighting corruption by suspending the SGF to pave way for independent and unbiased investigation into the corruption case involving the SGF and Torhile Uchi.

"It is unacceptable that verifiable cases of corruption such as the one superintendent upon by the SGF and his aide will be swept under the carpet during the tenure of an administration that has sworn to fight corruption to a standstill.

As it is customary, Senator George Akume must be suspended to pave way for a full, free and comprehensive investigation into gross allegations of corruption coordinated in his office and with his full consent. An N80billion crime of money laundering uncovered by the EFCC using taxpayers money cannot be allowed to slip away like that. We demand accountability. 

"We, therefore give EFCC a 7-day ultimatum to update the public on the status of the pending investigation or risk a massive nationwide protest from the Yoruba nation, all lovers of democracy and anti-corruption crusaders.

 "Be reminded, Mr. President that Senator George Akume did not just involve himself in a high stake corruption case but he is also blocking law enforcements from doing their job. Babachir Lawal, a former SGF was removed from office for an offence that was little compared to the scandal the SGF has been involved with.

"The EFCC must equally know that Nigerians are watching patiently to know what will happen to the case. This case is indeed a litmus test for the anti graft agency which must not be seen as a toothless bulldog that barks without consequences", the release stated. 

The group concluded by assuring the President of their unalloyed support but insisted that the President must never been seen as looking the other way when his aides and appointees are involved in cases of corruption as this will taint the anti-corruption war.

"Let us remind you, Mr. President that as a group that support your administration's anti-corruption drive, we owe you a duty to always cooperate with you to prosecute corrupt elements no matter how highly placed they might be. You did that in the case of Beta Edu and recently, NNPCL management. Let this case not be an exception please", the statement concluded.