SAN FRANCISCO, October 31, (THEWILL) – The Presidency has revealed that sacked Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Babachir David Lawal, and sacked National Intelligence Agency (NIA) Director-General, Ayo Oke, are to be quizzed by the anti-graft agencies.
This was contained in a statement issued by the Senior Special Assistant on Media and Publicity, Garba Shehu, saying President Muhammadu Buhari will not stop the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) from its investigation against Lawal and Oke.
THEWILL recalls that President Buhari, had on Tuesday, approved the appointment of Boss Mustapha as the new Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), and terminated the appointment of the Lawal and Oke.
However, after the Presidency announced the officers’ sack, there were calls that they be handed over to the anti-graft agencies.
Responding, Shehu stated that “the President has taken the administrative action. All other actions will be taken by relevant government agencies.
“The position of the President, therefore, is that investigative agencies, which have already commenced the investigation of the two officers removed from office, will go on with their work of investigation without any interference or hindrance.
“The President, who is fully conversant with the provisions of the constitution will not stop the investigation of anyone because he has no such power under our laws. This is a decision of the Supreme Court.
“The President under our laws can, through the Attorney General, enter a nolle prosequi to stop an ongoing trial. He may, upon conviction, order a pardon.
“Beyond these, the President cannot order investigation agencies to not investigate anyone and does not intend to do in this, or any other circumstance.
“Based on his wish and desire for a strict observance of the law, the President expects the EFCC, ICPC and such agencies to proceed with ongoing investigations.
“When and where they have reasonable grounds to charge former or serving officers to court.”
