Corrupt opposition members not above the law — Ogun PDP chieftain
An Ogun State chieftain of the Peoples Democratic Party, Segun Showunmi, has slammed individuals who claim their investigations or prosecutions by anti-graft agencies are unfair because they are opposition party members. Showunmi argues that Nigeria's democracy is under threat not from investigations, but from political actors weaponizing their opposition status as a shield against the law.
The PDP chieftain emphasizes, "Opposition does not grant a license to steal or immunity from accountability." He states that calling an investigation 'victimization' is an attempt to manipulate public opinion and evade justice. Showunmi highlights the nation's constitution, which clearly states that no one is above the law, and mandates the state to combat corruption and power abuse, with no exceptions for opposition leaders or former office holders.
Segun Showunmi further clarifies that the only recognized immunity is limited, specific, and temporary, ending upon leaving public office. He asserts that suggesting otherwise is an invention of unconstitutional privileges. Showunmi also notes that the EFCC and other anti-graft agencies are legally obligated to investigate economic and financial crimes.
The chieftain emphasizes that investigations, arrests, and prosecutions, when conducted within the law, do not infringe on fundamental rights. This is a legal principle established by the Supreme Court, not political statements. Showunmi also addresses the presumption of innocence, stating that it does not prevent investigations, questions, or charges. If proven innocent, individuals will be cleared by the courts; if not, the law will take its course, upholding the rule of law.
Segun Showunmi criticizes the argument that 'others are corrupt' as irrelevant in Nigerian law. He points out that courts have consistently ruled that the alleged wrongdoing of others does not excuse or absolve an accused person. Showunmi argues that accountability and justice are personal, and guilt should not be suspended due to the charges against others.
The chieftain concludes that the true threat to Nigeria's multiparty democracy is not the EFCC's actions but the attempts to intimidate, delegitimize, or blackmail anti-corruption institutions when investigations involve politically exposed individuals. He stresses that democracy entails submission to the law, especially by those who once held public trust. Transparency is essential, but it should not be used as a tool for diversion. Nigeria already has institutions empowered by the constitution and laws to audit, investigate, and prosecute financial crimes.
Showunmi warns that creating parallel structures to undermine lawful investigations or discredit prosecutions is not reform but evasion. He emphasizes that public office is a trust, and breaches of that trust must face consequences. The appropriate response to an investigation should be a competent legal defense and respect for due process, not alarmism, international lobbying, or political noise.
