Alwan Hassan, a senior member of the All Progressives Congress (APC), has publicly alleged that a significant majority of ministers who served under former President Muhammadu Buhari should be prosecuted for corruption and mismanagement. These statements were made during a televised interview and have generated considerable attention within political and public spheres.
According to Hassan, the Buhari administration was characterized by a lack of oversight and accountability. He asserted that ministers operated with a high degree of autonomy, which, in his view, facilitated widespread corruption and abuse of office. Hassan estimated that approximately 95% of ministers from the Buhari era should face legal consequences if proper investigations were conducted.
Hassan referenced recent legal actions against former ministers, including Abubakar Malami (former Minister of Justice) and Chris Ngige (former Minister of Labour), as evidence of ongoing scrutiny. These cases have contributed to renewed public debate regarding the effectiveness of the Buhari administration’s anti-corruption efforts.
When questioned about the extent of corruption within the Buhari government, Hassan maintained his position, stating that a comprehensive review of official records would likely result in the prosecution of the majority of former ministers.
Hassan’s statements are notable due to his status as a senior APC figure, rather than an opposition member. His comments align with longstanding public concerns regarding accountability and transparency among high-ranking officials during Buhari’s tenure.
Empirical data from local and international organizations during Buhari’s presidency indicated persistent issues related to mismanagement, embezzlement, and lack of transparency in various ministries and agencies. Despite the administration’s anti-corruption platform, there were few prosecutions of high-level officials, which contributed to public skepticism regarding the government’s commitment to reform.
Following Hassan’s remarks, several civil society groups have called for a comprehensive audit of the Buhari administration. These groups advocate for independent investigations to assess the conduct of former ministers and top officials, arguing that such measures are necessary to restore public trust and reinforce the principle of accountability.
Political analysts suggest that these allegations may have significant implications for the APC and the broader Nigerian political environment. The party may face increased pressure to address the legacy of the Buhari administration and to implement reforms aimed at improving governance and accountability.
In summary, Hassan’s allegations have intensified calls for systemic reforms and greater oversight of public officials. The situation underscores the ongoing demand for transparent governance and the enforcement of legal standards, regardless of political affiliation or status.