I recall stumbling on an article that said; Nigeria’s endemic corruption is the country’s greatest challenge to its stability despite antigraft efforts from the government, which raises questions about the Nigerian institutions’ ability to tackle corruption.
When former President Muhammadu Buhari took charge, many believed he would substantially decimate corruption. Unfortunately at the end of his tenure in May 29, 2023, there was little to doubt that corruption had been unshaken by the personae or erstwhile reputation of Buhari.
Since he was succeeded by President Bola Tinubu – a prominent figure in the country’s political landscape, there has been pretty little enthusiasm around the fight against corruption in view of Tinubu’s own courting of several controversies.
Even Tinubu did not stir any hope about fighting corruption in his inaugural speech. The only reference the President made in his inaugural speech to corruption was that “government will continue to take proactive steps such as championing a credit culture to discourage corruption while strengthening the effectiveness and efficiency of the various anti-corruption agencies.”
In the past, Tinubu has been knocked with various allegations, including unproven claims of drug trafficking and now, his ability to fight corruption has been a subject of intense scrutiny and debate.
As the President of Nigeria, it is essential to evaluate his track record and the allegations of corruption that have been linked to him.
Allegations of Corruption Against Tinubu
Alpha Beta: One of the most prominent corruption allegations against Tinubu is his involvement with the Alpha Beta Consulting firm. Alpha Beta is a consulting firm that allegedly handles tax collections for the Lagos State government as far back as Tinubu’s term as governor.
It has been accused of siphoning off a significant portion of tax revenue, diverting billions of naira in revenue from the Lagos State government. Although Tinubu denies direct ownership, the company’s founders are believed to be his close associates.
Recall that a former Managing Director of Alpha Beta, Dapo Apara, had in a 40-page writ of summons revealed how Tinubu, used one Adegboyega Oyetola, believed to be the former Governor of Osun State as a front for the establishment of the firm.
The same petition also indicted a former commissioner in Lagos State Akin Doherty who is considered a close associate of Tinubu. Till date, the facts of the case have not been revealed.
Dubious Wealth Accumulation
Another instance that raises suspicions is Tinubu’s wealth accumulation. He has amassed considerable wealth and control several assets, which some believe cannot be fully accounted for through legitimate means alone.
Recall that Tinubu claimed he got his wealth from money saved from his pay while working with oil giant Mobil in the late 1980s.
But in a BBC interview before the elections, Tinubu claimed he became wealthy through real estate and other investments.
He is quoted as saying; “Are they enemies of wealth, if they are not enemies of wealth–investments do yield. I have an example of Warren Buffet, one of the richest men in America and the world. He started with stock buying and brokerage. I inherited great real estate, I turned the values around.”
“I am not denying my wealth. I was the most investigated, the most accused governor in opposition for eight years up to 2007. Since I left office, I am still there, I have not taken a government appointment, no government contract,” he said.
When asked about allegations of getting “cuts” from Lagos State revenue, Tinubu claimed that the records of the state have been investigated by the International Monetary Fund (IMF).
Regardless, there is an air of suspicion around the legitimacy of Tinubu’s wealth and the lack of transparency has led to allegations of corruption and financial impropriety.
Unproven Drug Trafficking Allegations
Tinubu has faced unproven allegations of involvement in drug trafficking, tarnishing his reputation and raising questions about his integrity. It is important to note that he has not been convicted but Journalist, David Hundeyin, about a year ago presented overwhelming evidence of Tinubu’s drug-trafficking past – read here – https://westafricaweekly.substack.com/p/bola-ahmed-tinubu-from-drug-lord
Several corruption allegations remain linked to Tinubu, many may yet remain unproven or he may as well escape conviction.
But the big question remains – Can Tinubu Fight Corruption?
Given the allegations and controversies surrounding Tinubu, it is difficult to ascertain whether he possesses the determination and integrity to effectively fight corruption. While his inaugural speech alluded very briefly to proactive measures against corruption, the lack of concrete actions and transparency in addressing the allegations against him raise doubts.
Only time will tell whether Tinubu can rise above the controversies and prove himself capable of the formidable task of combating corruption in Nigeria.
