President Muhammadu Buhari on Monday reinstated his commitment on the war against corruption as he assured Nigerians that no amount of pressure that could be mounted on him would make him stop his regime’s bid to stamp out corruption in the polity.
Buhari, who was represented by his Special Adviser Adviser on Media and Publicity, Mr. Femi Adesina, said this while addressing some protesters who stormed the Presidential Villa to encourage him to continue his ongoing corruption war.
The placard–wielding protesters under the aegis of the Nigerians Against Corruption group were led by Aisha Yesufu. Inscriptions on some of the placards carried by the protesters read, “I voted Buhari to fight corruption,” “Governors and their deputies must declare their assets,” NASS, epitome of corruption,” and “President and VP must declare their assets,” among others.
As the normal case with such protests, they were stopped at the gate of the Presidential Villa close to the Supreme Court by security operatives.
Buhari thereafter dispatched Adesina and his Senior Special Assistant on Media and Publicity, Garba Shehu, to address them.
While promising that he would not relent in the prosecution of the war against corruption, the President however promised that he would give due regard for the rule of law while carrying out the task.
The President said that all persons charged with stealing the nation’s resources would be prosecuted.
He added that upon conviction, their ill-gotten wealth would be seized and returned to the government coffers.
He said, “I believe it is time for Nigeria to change course. That is why I sought election as President and got elected. As President, I am determined that Nigeria must move away from a course of endemic corruption that is leading us to perdition.
“There can be no question of our willfully allowing anyone to get away with corruption.
“No matter the pressure and entreaties, the anti-corruption war will continue and all accused persons will have their day in court.”
The President also reiterated his commitment to curbing insecurity in the country and boosting employment opportunities for Nigerians, especially the youth.
He called for the continued support and solidarity of Nigerians as the present administration works to correct the wrongs of the past.
The protesters assured the President that majority of Nigerians supported his ongoing efforts to curb corruption.
They urged him not to be deterred by the antics of those who did not share his laudable vision of a fairer, more equitable, corruption-free and progressive nation.
Well done our President , don’t be distracted by the pressures mounted by those who never wish Nigeria well . By their pressures , it shows the level of moral decadence in our country . Mr President sir , be focused and firmed in your efforts to rid Nigeria of corruption .