AfDB former vice presidents call for independent probe of Adesina

The forum of former Vice Presidents of the African Development Bank (AfDB) have called for independent probe of it’s president Akinwunmi Adesina.
Akinwunmi Adesina is seeking re-election for a second term in office, but is however faced by allegations of corruption and imbalanced appointments into the bank

In a statement jointly signed by Kane Ousmane and Bedoumra Kordje on behalf of the former vice presidents, they expressed concern over the dispute between the Banks President and some of Its shareholders over the outcome of allegations made against the President by whistleblowers, and in particular over the question of whether there shouid be an independent enquiry into the whnstleblowers’ allegations. 
Part of the statement reads: “The creation of the African Development Bank was the work of African visionaries collaborating with others within the framework of the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa. It was a feat which required overcoming the doubts of many African countries as well as external sceptics. The opening of the Bank’s capital to non-regionals was a result of an extended debate. Its implementation enabled the Bank to acquire its AAA credlt rating and to establish over time a track record that has made possible the access to the international capital markets that we celebrate today. 
“The African Development Fund (ADF) has succeeded in mobilizing concessional resources mainly from non regional member countries; For the 33 regional member countries eligible only for ADP financing, access to these resources are the primary benefit of membership. The Nigeria Trust Fund has also made a substantial contribution to regional member countries. 
“Decision making by consensus has been the practice of the Bank. The sooner the present situation is resolved the better. The trading at allegations and counterstatements in the media is not in the interest of the Bank and risks damaging its reputation and jeopardizing Its future. The confidence of all stakeholders is necessary for the Bank’s success. Therefore, there is a need to proceed with what we perceive as a potential consensus. 
“We note that eleven former African leaders have signed a statement on 29 May 2020 calling for caution and hlghlighting the need (or the Bank’s rules, procedures and governance structures to be respected. In their words: ”Governance Is all about respecting and abiding by rules, laws and established governing systems and we fully support thus affirmation,” the statement explained
The Bank’s former Vice presidents also said it will be in the interest of everyone for an independent enquiry to be carried out on the allegations laid against thr President.
“It is in the interest of the Bank, its shareholders, President, and staff that an independent enquiry examines the allegations and the evidence and comes to clear conclusions which can inform the conduct of the Bank’s business in the future,” They said.