By Bayo Suleiman
Despite a July 6, 2018 Supreme Court judgement affirming the June 2017 decision of the Code of Conduct Tribunal which held that the prosecution failed to prove its false asset declaration case against the Senate President, Dr. Bukola Saraki; it appears the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) is yet unsatisfied.
The anti-graft agency has therefore initiated a new investigation which seeks to probe all salaries, allowances, estacodes, and payments received by Dr. saraki while serving as governor of Kwara State from 2003 to 2011.
In a letter to the state government, through the Permanent Secretary, Government House, dated April 26, and titled, “Investigation Activities: Dr. Bukola Saraki”; EFCC said it was investigating an alleged case of conspiracy, abuse of office, misappropriation of public funds, theft, and money laundering involving Dr. Saraki.
The letter, signed by the Commission’s Zonal Head, Isyaku Sharu, read in part: “You are kindly requested to furnish us with the full details of all his entitlements to include but not limited to emoluments, allowances, estacodes, other fringe benefits and severance package while he held sway as the Executive Governor of Kwara State between 2003 and 2011.
“This request is made pursuant to Section 38 (1) & (2) of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (Establishment) Act, 2004 and Section 21 of the Money Laundering (Prohibition) Act.”
Considering that Saraki had gone through a protracted legal battle in the past on the same allegations; many observers believe the latest investigation is the beginning of another round of witch hunting for the roles Saraki played as opposition leader in the 2019 elections.