A civil society organisation, Grassroot Advocacy for Peace and Good Governance, has cautioned individuals facing corruption allegations against resorting to media campaigns and social media propaganda to influence ongoing investigations by anti-graft agencies.
The group issued the warning on Saturday while addressing journalists in Birnin Kebbi, following the circulation of a press statement on social media attributed to one Mohammed Bello Doka, who claimed to be Special Assistant on Media to former Attorney-General of the Federation, Abubakar Malami, SAN.
The statement, titled “Recuse Yourself, You Can’t Investigate Me – Malami to EFCC Chairman,” was described by the organisation as originating from an “unrecognised, unregistered and unconstitutional office.”
Speaking at the briefing, the National Chairman of the group, Comrade Usman Mohammed-Anache, said the organisation would not comment on the substance of the allegations, noting that the issues were already under investigation by constitutionally empowered authorities.
“For the avoidance of doubt, we strongly condemn the growing practice where persons facing allegations resort to the media, especially social media, to prosecute their cases and leak information, including classified materials entrusted to them by officials,” Mohammed-Anache said.
He stressed that the group, as a registered body of trustees, was opposed to what he termed “trial and judgment by the media,” insisting that all complaints should be submitted to the appropriate authorities.
According to him, the organisation remains committed to supporting efforts to curb corruption, money laundering and other financial crimes that hinder national development.
“We must collectively stand against corrupt practices, including the abuse of public office, intimidation of institutions and actions that undermine the rule of law,” he added.
Mohammed-Anache commended the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and the Federal Government for their ongoing anti-corruption drive, and urged the EFCC, the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) and other sister agencies not to be distracted by intimidation, false allegations or divisive tactics.
He called on individuals facing corruption allegations to address their cases before the relevant authorities rather than engaging in social media propaganda.
“The era of business as usual is over. All accused persons should face their allegations squarely and allow the law to take its course,” he said.
