Magu – Amazing Anti-Corruption Czar 3 years After

Tomorrow, Monday 12th November 2018 will be exactly three (3) years that Ibrahim Mustapha Magu mounted the saddle as the Acting Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).

In those action packed three (3) years, Magu has brought fresh insights into the Anti-Corruption war, posting amazing , incredible mouthwatering results for the country on all fronts.

In terms of public prosecution of high profile matters, the EFCC under the watch of Magu has been phenomenal and unprecedented. Two former Governors were found guilty of corruption and sentenced to terms of imprisonment, a feat that has never happened before.

A former Chairman of the Ogori-Magongo Local Government – GrbrielDaudu was also prosecuted from the Federal High Court up till the Supreme Court successfully and actually served and completed his prison term.

There are scores of other convictions including that of a former Senior Advocate of Nigeria Joseph Nwobike. This has never happened before.

In terms of recovery of stolen assets and proceeds of crime, the achievements of Magu are more than impressive.

Daily, interim and final forfeiture proceedings are being initiated and finalized under the watch of Magu with incredible boost to the government’s revenue profile as a result of these efforts.

The rating of the country internationally continues to soar under Magu’s watch so much that he has gained National and International recognition and awards since he mounted the saddle.

Magu has carried on these past three (3) years working with passion and full dedication to the anti-corruption crusade, in spite of several challenges including the failure of the Senate to confirm his appointment because Mr. President has incredible confidence in his competence, character, capacity and capabilities.

The issue of the propriety of his confirmation is still a subject of litigation before our courts, however Section 171 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended) stipulates that heads of extra ministerial agencies do not require confirmation to execute their assignments.

The Vice-President, Professor YemiOsinbajo SAN GCON and frontline human rights lawyer Femi Falana (SAN) and this writer are persuaded by this view.

Secondly, the legitimacy of the appointment of Magu in an Acting capacity is not in question having regard to Section 11 of the Interpretation Act stipulating that MAgu is entitled to act in an Acting capacity at the pleasure of the President- the appointing authority.

There is no doubt that Magu enjoys unparalleled confidence of Mr. President and the Vice-President, both of whom are known locally and internationally for impeccable anti-corruption profile and credentials.

I think it is in the interest of the Senate to redeem its image by confirming his appointment as a surplusage.

Otherwise, Magu moves on and continues to attract local and international while acclaim while executing his duties effectively and efficiently.

Finally, three years down the line, EFCC under Magu’s watch is one huge example of discipline, integrity, transparency, accountability and an unblemished record of high performance.

My verdict and that of millions of Nigerians is that this incredible Nigerian should be encouraged to continue his good work in the service of our country.