By Ahmed Ahmed
Group Lawyers for the Cause of Bauchi (LAWBA) has expressed strong reservations about the Bauchi State Government’s anti-corruption efforts, specifically the recent arrest and investigation of Abubakar Sa’idu, the immediate past Accountant-General and Permanent Secretary Ministry for Higher Education.
Mr Bala Hussaini, Esq. Spokesperson of LAWBA stated this at a news conference on Friday in Bauchi
He argues that the government’s actions lack legal basis due to a binding judgment delivered by the Federal High Court Bauchi Division on July 20, 2023.
“The judgment invalidated the law creating the Bauchi State Public Complaints and Anti-Corruption Commission,” he said.
He maintains that the Commission’s actions are null and void, citing the subsisting court judgment.
“LAWBA question the government’s decision to proceed with the investigation despite the legal impediment.
“The government’s actions are dead on arrival as a matter of law,” said a LAWBA representative.
“We urge the Bauchi State Government to refer the case to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Independent Corrupt Practices Commission (ICPC), and other duly constituted agencies.”
Hussaini also expressed concerns about selective justice, asking how one person could perpetrate the alleged offenses alone.
“We demand full disclosure on matters of public interest, emphasizing that leaders hold offices in trust for the people.
“The government owes citizens a duty to explain how possible it is for only one person to perpetrate the alleged offenses,” the representative stated.
“What about other persons having explanations to offer on this case and other matters related to the management of Bauchi State’s resources, Hussaini said
According to him, LAWBA commits to ensuring the right thing is done, cooperating with properly constituted bodies to determine legal issues and promote the rule of law.
“The lawyers urge other well-meaning citizens to join the struggle for a genuine fight against corruption.
“Law, power, and authority must be deployed to serve our collective good and nothing else,” Hussaini emphasized.