The Attorney-General of the Federation, AGF, and Minister of Justice Lateef Fagbemi (SAN) has canvassed that those found guilty of corruption should not be entitled to state pardon.
Fagbemi made the recommendation yesterday in Abuja at a roundtable organized by the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) for State Attorneys General.
The AGF posited that “I will suggest in our next Constitution Review that we expunge those found guilty of corruption from benefiting from powers of ‘Prerogative of Mercy’ to serve as a deterrent to others.” The AGF was quoted as saying by his spokesman Kamarudeen Ogundele.
Fagbemi also frowned at the inadequate investigation of criminal cases by law enforcement agencies. He, therefore, advised them to always arm themselves with sufficient facts before inviting anyone for questioning.
This was contained in a statement by Ogundele. It reads: “The AGF said the cooperation of all stakeholders, especially the AGs, was crucial in the fight against corruption.
“Fagbemi advised the AGs to eschew nepotism, political witch-hunting, rivalry, and bigotry in the fight against corruption. Just because they want to please their Governors.
“He also said there should be no basis for rationalizing corruption or crimes.
“He said their legal opinions on cases must be based on the facts as practiced in the advanced countries.
The AGF added: ‘We should not give in to public sentiments. In Nigeria, we are polarized along political lines.’
“The AGF advised participants and anti-graft agencies to conduct thorough investigations of cases before arresting suspects to avoid media trials.
“’Let us be thorough and take our time before inviting someone for questioning. Don’t do a shoddy job and be quick to say we have caught a big fish…You will catch a big fish. If it is two or three big fish you are able to get in a year and you are thorough, it is alright.’”
Ogundele stated that the AGF also counselled against filing bogus counts of charges against defendants. Just to generate frenzy in the public against the suspect.
Quoting the AGF, the spokesman said, “Nobody wants a 50-count charge. Make it five or six and be sure. Make sure you get him (suspect) in,” the AGF said.
Recall that former Governors Rev Jolly Nyame (Taraba) and Joshua Chibi Dariye (Plateau) are recent examples of those granted a presidential pardon.
They were forgiven in 2022 after serving some years following corruption convictions.
“Dariye was jailed by a High Court of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) for stealing N2 billion of public funds while in office.
“Nyame was serving a 12-year jail term for misappropriation of funds while he was in office. The Supreme Court upheld his conviction in February 2020.
In a speech read earlier on his behalf by a Director in the Federal Ministry of Justice, Victoria Ojogbanne, Fagbemi identified corruption as the core hindrance to the nation’s development.
The AGF argued that despite the country’s immense potential, it has remained prostrate owing to the challenge of corruption.
“Nigeria is a land of immense potential. Blessed with vibrant cultures, abundant resources, and a dynamic population brimming with talent and ambition.
“Yet, despite these advantages, corruption remains a formidable barrier to our progress and prosperity. It undermines our institutions. Distorts economic opportunities, and erodes the trust that is vital for a thriving society.
“Today, we gather not only to acknowledge this impediment to our nation’s development but to chart a course towards a brighter future. A future where integrity, transparency, and accountability would define our path forward.
“To achieve this vision, it is imperative that we build a unified front against corruption. And harnessing the collective strength of every segment of our society.
“First and foremost, our fight against corruption must begin with a shared commitment to reformation and transparency. It is essential that we strengthen our institutions. Fortify our legal frameworks, and ensure that justice is both prompt and impartial.
“The integrity of our judicial system is paramount. And we must work tirelessly to eliminate any weaknesses that can be exploited by corrupt elements.”
The AGF also stressed the need of cooperation. He said: “Collaboration is key. No single entity or individual can tackle corruption alone. We must foster a spirit of cooperation. Between government agencies, the private sector, civil society, and international partners.
“By sharing information, resources, and best practices, we can create a more robust and effective mechanism for combating corruption.
“Public and private sector leaders must lead by example. Setting standards of ethical behaviour and accountability that others will follow.
“I must commend the resolve of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for donating property to serve as the Network of Anti-Corruption Institutions in West Africa, the NACIWA permanent headquarters.
“Mr. President’s resolve underscores the importance of strengthening institutional capacity. And enhancing cross-border cooperation in the prevention, detection and investigation of corrupt practice.
“Thirdly, we must engage and empower our citizens. An informed and active populace is one of the most powerful tools against corruption.
“Education and awareness campaigns are crucial in equipping Nigerians with the knowledge to recognize and resist corrupt practices.
“We must encourage whistleblowing and protect those who bravely stand against corruption. The fight against corruption is a shared responsibility, and every citizen has a role to play.
“This is why at the African Anti-Corruption Day held on 11 July 2024 we emphasized the urgent need to collaborate with the legislature to pass a robust whistleblower protection law in Nigeria. This is to safeguard whistleblowers’ anonymity, safety, and rights. This would in turn boost the fight against corruption and promote accountability.”
According to the AGF, addressing corruption “requires vigilance and resilience”.
“It is essential that we continuously evaluate our strategies. Adapt to emerging challenges, and maintain a steadfast resolve in our efforts.
“Our commitment to fighting corruption must be unwavering, regardless of the obstacles we encounter. Let me reiterate that the fight against corruption is not just a legal battle but a moral and societal one.
“As the Chief Legal Officers in your respective States, you have a unique role in ensuring that this fight is sustained, strengthened, and ultimately won.
“I am confident that with your cooperation, commitment, and dedication, we can build a stronger, more independent, and more effective ICPC that will serve as a beacon of hope for our nation,” Fagbemi said.
source: The Nation
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