From Okwe Obi, Abuja
The Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA) has described as ‘fake’ allegation of job racketeering leveled against the Chief of Staff to President Bola Tinubu, Femi Gbajabiamila
HURIWA’s National Coordinator, Emmanuel Onwubiko, at a press briefing yesterday in Abuja, noted that the allegations were driven by personal grievances and political maneuvering.
He said: “We, the Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA), have convened this press conference today to address the recent and unsettling allegations surrounding Mr. Femi Gbajabiamila, the Chief of Staff to President Bola Tinubu.
“These allegations suggest that Mr. Gbajabiamila has been engaged in the trading of government appointments, including the alleged replacement of appointees chosen by the President with individuals who may have offered financial inducements.
“HURIWA is committed to presenting a comprehensive perspective on these allegations, illuminating the complexities involved, and setting the record straight.
“First, it is essential to provide clarity regarding the role of a Chief of Staff in the office of a political leader. The Chief of Staff serves as a pivotal figure, closely collaborating with the President to manage numerous aspects of the administration.
“These responsibilities encompass coordinating appointments, scheduling, and acting as a liaison between the President and other government officials.
“Importantly, the Chief of Staff does not wield unilateral authority in dictating appointments; the process invariably involves multiple stakeholders.
“We must also acknowledge the stature of President Bola Tinubu. He is a seasoned and astute political leader who is profoundly cognisant of the appointments made within his government.
“The President possesses the agency to approve or disapprove of any nominations, and it is indeed improbable that any manipulation of these appointments could occur without his knowledge and consent.
“Therefore, the allegations swirling around Mr. Gbajabiamila are not to be taken lightly, for they are fraught with implications.
“Accusations of manipulating government appointments can erode public trust in the democratic process and the leadership of the nation.
“They can also tarnish the reputations of individuals targeted by such allegations.
“The allegations that Mr. Gbajabiamila collects money to manipulate appointments are not supported by concrete evidence.
“They appear to be driven by personal interests and political infighting rather than a genuine concern for the welfare of the nation.
“In fact, these allegations appear to be a distraction from the significant issues currently facing Nigeria, including ongoing litigations and the need for stability and good governance.”
Onwubiko counselled rumour mongers to desist from peddling unsubstantiated reports and allow the President to work after winning a legal battle that spanned over 200 days.
“We emphasise that President Tinubu, having recently triumphed in a significant legal battle that spanned over 200 days, now requires the opportunity to focus on governance rather than being embroiled in political infighting and attempts to tarnish the image of key figures responsible for steering the administration.
“Furthermore, we understand that there are individuals close to President Tinubu, often referred to as “Lagos boys,” who aspire for official government positions.
“It is vital to acknowledge that not every close associate of a political leader can or should be appointed to government positions.
“Appointments should be made based on merit, qualifications, and the capacity to contribute to good governance.
“These individuals may be frustrated about not receiving appointments, but blaming Mr. Gbajabiamila without concrete evidence is neither productive nor fair.
“We believe that their allegations are driven by personal grievances and political maneuvering.
“We want to remind everyone that President Tinubu is a discerning leader, and he pays attention to the appointments made within his government.
“He would not blindly accept substitutions without questioning the changes. President Tinubu has been vigilant and engaged in the governance of Nigeria, and there is no reason to believe he would allow any manipulation of appointments to go unnoticed.
“In conclusion, we urge the public and the media to be cautious of individuals who may be pursuing personal interests by fueling these allegations against Mr. Femi Gbajabiamila.
“Nigeria is currently facing critical challenges, and it is essential to focus on issues that truly matter, such as development, security, and governance.
“We advocate unity and collaboration among Nigerians to address these paramount concerns and to avoid being distracted by unfounded allegations,” he posited.