One of Nigeria’s leading civil society organisations, the Voices Against Corruption and Financial Crime (VACFC) has pointed accusing fingers at the previous administration of Alhaji AbdulFatah Ahmed for resisting attempts made at unravelling cases of impunity and corruption in Kwara State, noting that there was no cooperation and support on the part of the past government.
The organisation made this accusation in a statement signed by the duo of Engr. Muhammed Saliu and Dr Kenneth Ike, Chairman and Secretary respectively, dated August 5, 2020, a copy of which was exclusively sent to The Ravens.
VACFC, meanwhile, commended Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq for constituting a panel of inquiry to probe the sale of Kwara State assets.
It described the governor’s action as a brave one, noting it is a step in the right direction.
According to the statement, “This is to commend the Governvor of Kwara State, HE Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq for the brave decision to probe the sale of Kwara state’s asset between May 29, 1999 to May 29, 2019.
“About 8 years ago, The Voices Against Corruption and Financial Crime (VACFC) conducted a nationwide audit to unravel unwholesome appropriation of people’s commonwealth by the political class. While we did try to unravel some cases in Kwara state, the resistance was overwhelming.
“We believe that it is a step in the right direction to set a stronger foundation for justice, fairness, and accountability. It is our hope governments across the nation would emulate your valorous sense of patriotism as we fight to drive out impunity in public offices in the interest of Nigeria.
The organisation however sues for impartiality and neutrality in the exercise, saying that it is ready to partner with the state government in the cause of stamping out impunity.
“However, we urge that you stay impartial and neutral in the exercise in order not to undermine the tenets of fairness. We also urge the Commission of Inquiry to be just and uncompromising in the discharge of their duties.
“VACFC is hereby calling on you to further use your good office to deepen financial propriety and probity by ensuring that all loopholes that encourage corrupt practices in the government are blocked and prevented.
“On our part, we are ready to help Your Excellency on this noble cause as we believe that for a working and sustainable system, corruption must be controlled and eradicated. Kindly accept our warm wishes.”