Shagari accuses Tinubu of shielding corrupt individuals within the oil and gas industry in his role as Petroleum Minister, raising serious concerns about governance and accountability.
Sani Yabagi, the National Chairman of Action Democratic Party, has urged President Bola Tinubu to step down from his role as Minister of Petroleum on account that it enables corruption in the oil and gas industry.
During an interview with AIT on Sunday, Shagari clarified that Tinubu’s position as Petroleum Minister could impede any inquiry into the oil industry.
He believes that the president must step down from his post as Minister of Petroleum to enable a thorough inquiry into the purported corruption within the sector.
According to him, it does not reflect well on his image as it gives the impression that he is protecting criminals and swindlers within the nation.
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Tinubu, being aware that corruption is rampant in a particular sector of the country, should not be protecting them.
For example, if there are problems that arise, the national assembly is unable to summon anyone. The Minister of State cannot be held accountable as their superior is inaccessible. Regrettably, this higher-up holds authority over all and hence cannot be summoned for questioning.
“This is a highly important sector. You acknowledged the existence of fraud within it, so why are you protecting those committing such acts? Why aren’t you permitting Nigerians to investigate?”
No one in the industry has faced legal action since it is not possible to file a lawsuit against the President.
The oil and gas sector’s leadership has faced a series of accusations that have resulted in an ongoing fuel crisis within the country.