The All Progressives Congress (APC) has issued a definitive statement, pushing back firmly against persistent claims that it serves as a safe haven for politicians seeking to evade corruption investigations. This declaration reinforces the party’s official position: membership in the ruling party offers no immunity or protection from legal prosecution for alleged financial misconduct. This stance, articulated by National Vice Chairman, North-East, Mustapha Salihu, underscores the administration’s stated commitment to a zero-tolerance policy on graft, even for its own members. The assertion that APC not refuge from EFCC investigations is a core principle being championed by President Bola Tinubu’s government.
Salihu’s comments, made to journalists in Yola, directly addressed the growing narrative suggesting that politicians defecting to the APC are primarily doing so to escape the long arm of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC). He dismissed these allegations as a calculated and politically motivated attempt to discredit the current administration and its genuine efforts to combat systemic corruption within Nigeria. Such narratives, he argued, are often designed to create distrust and undermine public confidence in the government’s integrity.
What is the EFCC mandate? The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) is Nigeria’s primary agency for investigating financial crimes like fraud, money laundering, and other forms of economic sabotage, aiming to combat corruption and ensure economic stability within the nation’s financial system.
He further elaborated that any party member found culpable of corruption would be thoroughly investigated and subsequently prosecuted, regardless of their political affiliation or standing within the APC. Salihu highlighted that the administration’s commitment extends to ensuring accountability across the board, noting that some chieftains have already engaged in plea bargains and returned illicitly acquired funds, demonstrating a tangible effort towards restitution and justice. This proactive approach aims to set a precedent for transparency.
The National Vice Chairman was specifically responding to earlier comments made by former Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Babachir Lawal, who had publicly accused the APC of increasingly becoming “a haven for EFCC fugitives” as the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) grapples with internal weaknesses. Such accusations fuel public debate about the integrity of political parties and the effectiveness of anti-corruption agencies. The ongoing discussion often pits APC vs PDP corruption records, with both parties facing scrutiny over their past and present handling of financial impropriety.
Dismissing Lawal’s allegation, Salihu issued a direct challenge to critics to present concrete evidence against any APC member suspected of corruption. He urged individuals with credible information to formally submit petitions to the relevant authorities, emphasizing that the party itself would not shield anyone from due process. This call for evidence aims to move beyond mere accusations and towards actionable intelligence that can support investigations and prosecutions.
Corruption, Salihu stressed, has been a significant impediment to Nigeria’s development and economic progress. He reiterated that President Tinubu’s administration is unequivocally committed to eradicating this scourge. The government understands that public perception regarding its anti-corruption guide Nigeria is crucial for maintaining legitimacy and fostering genuine national development. Addressing corruption is not merely a political talking point but a critical pillar for national growth and stability.
Furthermore, the APC chieftain accused opposition figures of strategically weaponizing anti-corruption narratives in anticipation of the upcoming 2027 elections. He expressed confidence that the Nigerian populace is discerning enough to recognize and see through what he described as political propaganda, designed to gain electoral advantage rather than genuinely address corruption. This political maneuvering highlights the complex interplay between governance, anti-corruption efforts, and electoral cycles.
He maintained that the recent wave of defections to the ruling party should be understood as being driven by genuine conviction and patriotism rather than any underlying fear of prosecution. This perspective suggests that individuals are aligning with the APC based on shared visions for the country, rather than seeking political cover. The focus remains on strengthening democratic institutions and ensuring that the EFCC retains its independence to carry out its mandate, irrespective of party affiliations.
For those seeking to understand the mechanisms of accountability, knowing how to report corruption in Nigeria is vital. Citizens are encouraged to use official channels provided by agencies like the EFCC and ICPC to submit verifiable complaints. This active participation strengthens the fight against corruption and ensures that no political entity, including the APC, becomes a refuge from the EFCC’s relentless pursuit of justice.
The administration’s commitment to fighting corruption remains unwavering, with a clear message that the APC not refuge from EFCC investigations, but rather an institution that supports accountability and due process for all its members. This principled stance aims to rebuild public trust and ensure that Nigeria progresses towards a future free from the shackles of graft.
