Mohammed Idris, Nigeria’s Minister of Information and National Orientation, has emphasized that President Bola Tinubu’s government has not used anti-corruption bodies as tools to target opposition politicians.
“The fight against corruption stands as one of the eight priority areas for President Tinubu’s administration. To this end, the President is bolstering institutions like the ICPC and EFCC to be more effective in their mandate,” Idris stated.
He added, “Through a deliberate policy of non-interference, our administration has made it clear: anti-corruption bodies are not instruments for political witch-hunting. They operate professionally and independently, always adhering to the principles of justice and rule of law.”
Idris also reiterated President Tinubu’s position that corruption will find no refuge in Nigeria under this government.
He went on to explain that President Tinubu is championing extensive judicial reforms to eliminate needless delays in corruption cases, ensuring that justice is delivered promptly.
Reflecting on the roundtable’s theme – “Partnership for Strengthening Transparency and Accountability at State and Local Government Levels Through Strategic Communications” – Idris remarked that the active participation of all State Commissioners of Information is crucial for effectively disseminating information throughout Nigerian society.
He highlighted that transparency and accountability are fundamental to democracy and lie at the heart of President Tinubu’s vision for governance.
Encouraging state-level cooperation, Idris called on government leaders to put aside political differences and rally behind the President’s economic and governance initiatives, which are designed to overturn years of stagnation and foster development.
“I urge all Honourable Commissioners, regardless of your political affiliations, to embrace the Renewed Hope Agenda championed by President Tinubu. These reforms are aimed at overcoming past neglect, fostering inclusivity, unlocking economic growth, and paving the way for steady national development,” he said.
Idris also lauded the ICPC, under Dr. Musa Adamu Aliyu’s stewardship, for its innovative approach to engaging stakeholders throughout states and local governments, ensuring that vital government information reaches communities at the grassroots level.