ODU Akowe Network Group (OANG) has appealed to President Bola Tinubu to prevail on the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), to stop harassing the former governor of Kogi State, Alhaji Yahaya Bello and also refrain from distracting Governor Ahmed Ododo.
The Spokesperson of the group, Comrade Noah Agada, made this known on Tuesday, during a press conference organised in Lokoja to address the recent political hangings in Kogi State.
He called on President Tinubu to prevail on the EFCC to stop the constant harassment of the former governor, adding that no government and society can thrive in an atmosphere of distraction, rancour and acrimony.
He said, “The activities of the EFCC as regards Kogi State in the recent weeks and months are constantly hindering the peace and development of our state; Impeding on the focus of the Ododo administration, therefore hampering on the progress of the state.
“The Odu Akowe Network, Youth and Student Wing, is therefore using this medium to urge the Federal Government to call the EFCC to order and refrain from distracting our Governor Usman Ododo and former Governor Yahaya Bello with inquiries into alleged infractions, instead they should allow the current governor to focus on
“The constant scrutiny of the past administration by the EFCC, masterminded by persons who are out to score personal political gains with the intent to persecute rather than prosecute the former governor is hindering the present administration from being purposeful and effective; let’s prioritise the future and development of our state.
“It is pertinent to note some of the achievements of former Governor Yahaya Bello’s contribution to state and National development; he was at the forefront of the 2023 Presidential election, even after losing his bid for the presidency, he wore the garment of a sportsman, campaigned for APC, leading the youth structures to galvanise support for this government. If this is how loyalty and stewardship is rewarded, it is a direct signal to us the youths that there’s no reward system. This is because from all indication, former Governor Bello is being paid in a negative manner having contributed handsomely to the APC victory in the 2023 general election.”
In light of the aforementioned, the group called on President Bola Tinubu, the National Party chairman, democratic institutions, opinion leaders and men of goodwill, to wade into this unprofessional conduct displayed thus far by the anti-graft agency.
“The President and the party should also note that “he who is silent in the face of oppression is an accomplice to oppression.
“We urge the Federal Government to focus on attracting more development to our state, rather than allowing anti-graft agencies to constantly harass our governor. It’s time to shift the focus from investigation to innovation and progress. We suggest you consider implementing business-attraction programs that have worked for other states such as offering tax credits and incentives, building a strong business development team and relentlessly focusing on performance and evaluation by working together, we can create a more prosperous future for our state and its citizens; let’s make it happen,” he stated.
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