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President Bola Tinubu has been urged to avoid making his government’s fight against corruption appear sectional or biased towards a particular ethnic group. He has also been advised to show appreciation and respect for those who supported him during his presidential campaign, particularly individuals from the northern region.
Segun Showunmi, a governorship aspirant under the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the 2023 general elections, made this call in an open letter addressed to President Tinubu. The letter, dated April 29, expressed concern over the perceived targeting of key political figures from the north by anti-graft agencies, especially the Economic Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).
Showunmi argued that the president’s actions could send a negative message to the north, potentially reinforcing the perception of Yoruba people as betrayers. He cited the example of former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai, who despite his unwavering support for Tinubu, faced humiliation during a Senate clearance for ministerial nominees.
Showunmi questioned the selective approach of the anti-corruption fight, highlighting the apparent lack of scrutiny towards members of the opposition while those who actively campaigned for Tinubu are being targeted. He urged the president to emulate former President Olusegun Obasanjo, who maintained loyalty and respect for those who supported him in attaining power.
“Without fanning the embers of discord, must every one who worked hard with you to get the seat become minimised by those around you, who are using the agencies under your control?” Showunmi wrote. “Do you plan to contest a second term or do you think your work will be done in one term of just 4 years? Shall tomorrow not come? Where are the men of yesterday?”
He emphasised the importance of shared power and the need for individuals to feel protected by the arrangements they help establish. He expressed concern that the current approach could damage the reputation of the Yoruba people and jeopardise future collaborations with other ethnic groups.
“The issues from the Awolowo era have not been resolved with other tribes, especially the Igbos who to date see Yorubas in a bad light but for the efforts of men like Obasanjo, Pa Adebanjo and to a lesser extent myself who have demanded that fair is fair,” Showunmi stated.
He concluded by urging the president to reconsider his approach and avoid making decisions that could have negative consequences for the Yoruba race and future political collaborations.
