Our Fight Against Corruption Has Been More Of Politics & Power Play – Moghalu

MICHAEL AKINOLA

Former Deputy Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria, Prof Kingsley Moghalu, said that the fight against corruption in Nigeria has been more of politics and power play.

Reacting to the suspension of the Acting Chairman of EFCC, Ibrahim Magu, Prof Moghalu said, “News of the suspension of EFCC Acting Chairman Ibrahim Magu by President Buhari, and all the “factional” controversy surrounding him since his appointment, goes far beyond Magu. Our “fight” against corruption in Nigeria has been more of politics and power play than addressing the underlying foundations of the phenomenon of corruption”. 

“I take no position on whether or not Magu is guilty as alleged. But I think all the controversies indicate that control of EFCC is a “prize” that is being contested by powerful interests. This may be why we have not taken the real, PREVENTIVE measures necessary to combat corruption effectively. Rather we rely only on reactive and often partial accountability in which some people’s corruption is “untouchable” while those of some others are mortal sin.”

“The whole EFCC framework needs review. The law that set it up says its Chair has to be a Police officer. This is an archaic concept, and should be amended to broaden the qualifications needed. Why not a serving or retired judge, intelligence official or a legal practitioner with integrity?” Moghalu asked.