A group under the auspices of the Kogi East Elders Forum has criticized Kogi East critical stakeholders for expressing a vote of confidence in the allegedly corrupt former Governor, Yahya Bello, over allegations of misappropriation of funds during his tenure.
A recent article by the Kogi East stakeholders advocates for pardoning Yahaya Bello, the Governor of Kogi State, over an alleged ₦80 billion corruption case.
The spokesperson of the forum, Engr. Lawrence Ankpa, in a statement shared with journalists, expressed concern over the plea to pardon Bello, stating that it sends a dangerous message to both present and future generations.
According to him, this message corrodes the moral fabric of our society and hampers our ability to achieve sustainable development and prosperity.
Lawrence emphasized that all individuals, regardless of their position or influence, must be subject to the same standards of justice.
He said, “Granting pardons based on political connections sets a dangerous precedent and sends the message that those in power are above the law.”
The statement read in part: “Moreover, the call for Asiwaju Bola Tinubu to intervene in this matter raises serious concerns about the politicization of the judiciary and law enforcement agencies.
“Our legal institutions and EFCC must operate independently from political interference to maintain their integrity and credibility.
“Placing undue pressure on the EFCC or any other investigative body to drop charges or grant pardons undermines public trust in these institutions and compromises their ability to effectively combat corruption.
“Furthermore, the alleged magnitude of the corruption case cannot be ignored. Eighty billion Naira is a staggering sum of money that could have been used to address pressing social and economic challenges facing the people of Kogi State.
“To dismiss such allegations lightly without a thorough and transparent investigation would be a disservice to the citizens who are ultimately the ones bearing the consequences of corruption.
“Let us also consider the broader implications of pardoning individuals accused of corruption. Doing so not only undermines the fight against graft but also perpetuates a culture of impunity.
“It sends the message that corruption is acceptable as long as one holds enough power or influence to evade accountability.
“Corruption is a cancer that must be rooted out from our society, and it is only by holding all individuals accountable, regardless of their status, that we can hope to achieve a better and more just future for all.”
