A Northern group, Arewa Think Tank (ATT), has dismissed a petition submitted by what it describes as a “faceless group” to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and the Independent Corrupt Practices Commission (ICPC), calling for an investigation into the Minister of Defence, Muhammed Abubakar Badaru, over alleged abuse of office.
In a statement, ATT Convener Muhammad Alhaji Yakubu defended the minister, urging Nigerians not to politicize his efforts in the defence ministry.
“If he wasn’t performing well, President Bola Tinubu would have removed him long ago. The president has confidence in his performance. Those behind this petition are acting out of envy and will not succeed,” Yakubu stated.
He dismissed claims that Badaru retains directorships in private companies, calling the accusations “deliberate lies.”
The petition alleges that the minister continues to file annual returns for private businesses and operates a Bureau de Change (BDC) while holding a federal ministerial position, in violation of conflict-of-interest laws.
However, ATT insists that these claims are “a calculated attempt to tarnish Badaru’s reputation” and urged EFCC and ICPC to investigate the petitioners’ real motives.
“We believe the petitioners should be scrutinized, as their actions may pose a threat to national security. The Ministry of Defence cannot be ridiculed by individuals attempting to derail President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda,” the group added.
ATT also urged the anti-graft agencies to act decisively against those spreading false accusations against the defence minister.
