The Arewa Youth Integrity Forum (AYIF) has strongly criticized former Vice President Atiku Abubakar for demanding the suspension of President Bola Tinubu’s Chief of Staff, Femi Gbajabiamila, over unproven allegations of involvement in a N400 billion bribery scandal. The youth group condemned Atiku’s call as hypocritical and politically motivated, arguing that the former VP lacks the moral authority to lecture anyone on integrity given his own long history of corruption allegations. In a statement released by its National President, Alhaji Mohammed Aliyu, AYIF described Atiku’s intervention as “political mischief” aimed at diverting public attention from his own controversial past, especially as the 2027 general elections approach.
AYIF maintained that while any allegation against a public official should be thoroughly investigated, such claims must not be weaponized by individuals with more damaging records. The forum highlighted Atiku’s tenure as Vice President from 1999 to 2007, during which he faced multiple graft accusations, including a Senate probe that recommended his prosecution for allegedly diverting over $145 million from the Petroleum Technology Development Fund (PTDF) to companies linked to him. The youth group pointed out that Atiku was banned from entering the United States for years due to corruption concerns, with reports indicating that over $40 million in suspect funds, including bribe payments from Siemens, were allegedly moved through accounts tied to him and his wife.
The forum also referenced the William Jefferson bribery scandal, where Atiku was implicated as the target of a $100,000 bribe attempt to influence Nigerian contracts. AYIF emphasized that Atiku’s pattern of controversies — from PTDF fund diversions to offshore money laundering allegations — undermines his credibility to demand accountability from others. The group recalled audio recordings released by a former aide alleging Atiku’s use of Special Purpose Vehicles (SPVs) to siphon public funds, including N100 million from ecological funds, further tarnishing his reputation.
AYIF called on Atiku to first address the many unanswered questions surrounding his wealth accumulation during his time in public office. The forum noted that Atiku’s public record is littered with allegations of abuse of office, embezzlement, and conflict of interest, including his involvement in NICOTES/INTELS business dealings while serving in the customs service and multiple Senate indictments. The statement concluded that Atiku should retire from the cycle of scandals and allow credible leaders to focus on moving Nigeria forward. As the nation continues to grapple with governance and accountability issues, the AYIF’s stance underscores the growing demand for consistent ethical standards from all public figures, regardless of political affiliation.
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