On this Democracy Day, I had intended to rest my pen. I wanted to leave the fate written on the walls of history to speak for itself. I thought perhaps the sacrifices of those who fought for democracy were enough testimony. Yet, in the final hour, a thought stirred within me, compelling me to write a message to all of us who have come together to form this sovereign nation called Nigeria. My message is particularly for those who believe that the business of Nigeria lies in the hands of a powerful few. Perhaps they are influenced by what the German sociologist Robert Michels described as the "Iron Law of Oligarchy" ,the tendency for power to concentrate in the hands of a small elite. Looking at our politics, our institutions, and our economy, one may be tempted to believe that the destiny of Nigeria is determined only by those who occupy powerful offices and influential positions. But history tells a different story. Nigeria does not belong to any president, governor, politi...
Reacting to Petition Against Former Osun Governor Gboyega Oyetola: Grassroots Stakeholders Question Motives and Predict Political Fallout
Counter-Opinion by Concerned Grassroots Stakeholders on the Politically-Colored Petition Filed by Abuja-Based Legal Practitioner
In response to the recent petition filed by Mr. Pelumi—an Abuja-based legal practitioner—alleging financial misconduct during the tenure of former Osun State Governor, His Excellency Gboyega Oyetola, we, the Concerned Grassroots Stakeholders, deem it necessary to present a measured and objective counter-opinion.
While we uphold the constitutional role of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) as a vital institution in the fight against corruption, we find Mr. Pelumi’s intervention to be marked by timing, tone, and substance that call into question its impartiality and motivation.
Upon reviewing Mr. Pelumi’s article titled “Oyetola Ongoing Corruption Investigation: We Must Continue to Commend the EFCC as It Stands Tall in This Defining Moment”, one is left with the impression of a narrative crafted more for political theatre than legal scrutiny. The language employed, though evocative, reveals an undertone of partisanship rather than a commitment to transparent justice.
We ask, quite candidly: If the search for justice is sincere, why is this fervor not applied uniformly? Why does the call for investigation appear selectively targeted toward political adversaries?
Selective outrage, while rhetorically powerful, erodes the integrity of public advocacy. When legal instruments are wielded as political weapons, the pursuit of justice becomes collateral damage.
Our Position
We respectfully challenge the legitimacy of Mr. Pelumi’s petition and request that the EFCC subject it to a rigorous and unbiased review. Our position is based on the following grounds:
1. Lack of Due Diligence
There is no public record indicating that the Osun State Auditor-General raised official audit queries against the administration of Mr. Oyetola. Similarly, no adverse report has been attributed to the State's Public Procurement Board during that period. These are crucial channels for procedural oversight. The absence of such institutional flags renders the foundation of the petition questionable, bordering on speculative rather than evidentiary.
2. Ethical and Professional Boundaries
As a member of the legal profession, Mr. Pelumi is bound by the Rules of Professional Conduct, particularly Rule 1, which mandates objectivity and the maintenance of the legal profession's integrity. A petition premised on conjecture and partisan tones risks breaching these ethical expectations and warrants professional scrutiny.
3. Preserving Institutional Integrity
The EFCC must not be manipulated into serving the ends of political vendettas. Its independence must be guarded jealously. Entertaining petitions that lack substantiated claims not only undermines its credibility but also diverts attention from legitimate anti-corruption efforts.
Conclusion
We urge the EFCC to:
Dismiss the petition on the grounds of insufficient evidence and lack of procedural rigor;
Refer the matter to relevant legal professional bodies for an evaluation of Mr. Pelumi’s conduct in accordance with ethical standards.
In times where political discourse is often polluted by self-serving narratives, it is imperative that public institutions remain insulated from partisan manipulation and remain committed to truth, fairness, and justice for all.
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