Witness narrates how Ex-HoS, allies diverted public funds to private companies in court
CSOs demand for investigations into alleged $1bn missing arms fund
By Modupe Shodeinde
The Nigeria Democracy Working Group, a coalition of Civil Society Organisations, has called on President Muhammadu Buhari to investigate the alleged missing $1 billion released for procurement of arms to fight insecurity.
In an open letter written to President Buhari, dated March 23, the group demanded for immediate setting up of a committee to investigate the allegation.
The National Security Adviser, NSA, to the President, Babagana Monguno, in a recent interview with the BBC Hausa Service alleged that the whopping amount of money had been released to the immediate past service chiefs, but the arms are yet to be procured.
The group stated that such allegations from a highly placed individual like the NSA must not be ignored.
It cautioned that the matter should not be about personalities or individuals, but, ‘We should rather be mindful about the corporate reputation and integrity of our country which is gradually drifting into total muddle. Hence, there is need for a special panel of investigation into this matter, and urgent action is not only desirable but is equally necessary.
“This growing degree of the culture of impunity if it is allowed to continue in our system will surely choke the practice to demand for accountability and transparency, two major best principles of democratic governance widely accepted world over. It is also rather unfortunate as some individuals would place themselves above the corridor of the rule of law, and refuse to recognise themselves as servants to the people, but rather choose to always behave as political dictators with total disregard to the plights of the majority, hence the need for a special panel of investigation into this matter, and this action is not only desirable but is equally necessary.”
The group stated that It in its, the terms of reference for the committee should include: Discreet probe on the actual release of the alleged funds and how much had so far been expended on the procurement of the military equipment.
It noted noted that the president should establish a High Power Committee to effect a thorough investigation and presentation of comprehensive findings to the public regarding the procurement of the said arms.
“This measure we believe would help Nigerian citizens to find solace on the growing anxiety they have been going through, since the beginning of the enduring controversy,” the group added.
It expressed hope that the Nigerians will receive a quick response to salvage the country from further shame and image damaging.
