The coalition of civil society organisations (CSOs) under the aegis of Coalition for Good Governance and Open Leadership in Nigeria has expressed concern over what it called abuse of activism for personal gain.
The coalition said some people are hiding under activism to blackmail key institutions of government like the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) and the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN).
The coalition at a press conference in Lagos addressed by its convener, Comrade Declan Ihekaire said while genuine activism is welcomed, “we find it necessary to address instances where activism deviates into avenues for personal enrichment and unwarranted attacks on critical institutions.”
A popular activist, Deji Adeyanju, has said that the NNPCL and CBN are also guilty of transferring money into private accounts following the scandal which led to the suspension of the Minister of Humanitarian Affairs, Betta Edu.
Adeyanju had in an interview on Arise TV said, “Quote me anywhere today that even NNPC transfers money to private accounts. I can provide you audited and classified transfers from NNPC into private accounts. CBN (Central Bank of Nigeria) transfers money (into private accounts). Even this set of people that have taken over from the crooked (Godwin) Emefiele administration; these new guys are transferring money into private accounts.”
But the CSOs at the press conference cautioned Adeyanju against a attempt to blackmail the institutions with unsubstantiated allegations.
Ihekaire said, “Our commitment to transparency in governance is unwavering, and we advocate for the thorough investigation of any allegation of wrongdoing within public institutions, including the NNPC and CBN.
“However, we caution against the politicization of such allegations to serve ulterior motives that may undermine the stability and progress of these institutions.
“Recent developments have revealed attempts by self-proclaimed activists, led by Comrade Deji Adeyanju, to exploit public concerns regarding the NNPC and CBN. Their planned protests, coupled with false accusations on national TV, indicate a sinister agenda aimed at coercing the agencies into negotiations where criminal demands could be made for personal gain.
“We emphasize the importance of maintaining a fair and impartial approach to allegations against public officials. Matters of this nature should be appropriately addressed through law enforcement agencies and the judiciary to ensure a just and objective process.
“We call on Nigerians to be vigilant and discerning in the face of such actions by career anti-corruption crusaders. The current security challenges in Abuja necessitate a responsible approach to protests, avoiding actions that may lead to security breaches.
“We urge Comrade Deji Adeyanju and his group to cease activities that could jeopardize security and refrain from attempting to manipulate public sentiments for personal gain. The Coalition for Good Governance Open Leadership remains committed to the principles of transparency, accountability, and good governance, and we encourage all stakeholders to act responsibly for the collective benefit of Nigeria.”
Comrade Shina Loremikan in his remark said activism should not be an avenue for media trial, adding that he who comes to equity must come with clean hands.
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