Yemi Adedeji, Abuja
A group, Civil Society Organisations in Nigeria has advised President Muhammadu Buhari to allow Abdulrasheed Maina, the embattled former Chairman, Presidential Committee on Pension Reform Taskforce Team (PPRT), to give his own account of the pension saga, saying it might lead to revelation of other conspirators.
Okpokwu Ogenyi, National Coordinator of the group, gave the advice while addressing a press conference on the state of the nation and the reinstatement and disengagement of Maina.
He also warned that the issue of Maina would make or mar the image of our country if not properly handled.
“We have observed with kin interest, the position of the Attorney General of the Federation, Abubakar Malami, who is the chief law officer of Nigeria.
“We have equally seen the position of the Nigerian Senate, the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), The All Progressive Congress (APC), the League of African Development Students, and as well as the civil service rule. We urge Nigerians not to panic, and advice actors of blame game to maintain caution, as the truth is gradually unfolding.”
Ogenyi stated: “On the recoveries of stolen pension fund by the PRTT which the pension magazine gave the figure at N200billion. Where is this fund? Is it in the federation account or where? Mr. Maina insisted that the money is in the federation account which both the past and present administration has not disputed.
“This issue of Mainagate and the gang of treasury looters is a focal point of world’s discussion today. It will make or mar the image of our country if not properly handled. Mr President sir, let us make it a round table as further revelation may lead to more recovery of funds.
“We wish to use this medium to appeal to Mr. President to look into the substance of the allegations and counter allegations by providing Maina with adequate security and make Maina face the Nigeria public by telling his own side of the story.
“This we believe will expose all the corrupt leaders hiding under the absence of Mr Maina. It could be true that treasury looters are getting back at him to save their own heads”.
