CRACON calls on President Tinubu to investigate Defence Minister Badaru over corruption and conflict of interest allegations

[dropcap]T[/dropcap]he Civil Rights and Anti-Corruption Network (CRACON) has urged President Bola Tinubu to establish a special investigative committee to probe the Minister of Defence, Muhammed Abubakar Badaru, over serious allegations of abuse of office and conflict of interest.

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In a statement issued on Wednesday, CRACON’s coordinator, Folashade Olumiya, called on the president to act decisively to maintain public confidence in his administration’s anti-corruption campaign.

Olumiya stressed that if former Minister of Humanitarian Affairs, Betta Edu, could be investigated for alleged financial misconduct, then the same level of scrutiny must apply to Minister Badaru.

“The president cannot afford to be selective in the war against corruption,” the statement read. “If a committee was set up to investigate Betta Edu, then the same must be done in the case of Defence Minister Muhammed Badaru.”

CRACON’s call follows a previous petition from the Young Guardians of Accountability (YGA), which accused Badaru of flouting federal laws by maintaining active commercial interests while serving in public office.

According to the YGA, the minister allegedly continues to run several private enterprises, including a Bureau de Change, despite existing regulations prohibiting such conflicts.

CRACON expressed concern that failure to act on the allegations would undermine the credibility of the government’s anti-corruption drive.

“This administration has repeatedly assured Nigerians that no one is above the law. Ignoring the allegations against Badaru will create the impression that the fight against corruption is selective,” Olumiya warned.

The group insisted that investigations by agencies like the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) should be complemented by a high-level presidential probe. CRACON believes this is essential to ensure full transparency and public accountability.

“The Defence Ministry plays a crucial role in national security, and the integrity of its leadership must be beyond reproach. We call on the president to take immediate action.

Anything less will send the wrong message to Nigerians about his administration’s commitment to fighting corruption,” said Olumiya.

In addition to concerns about corruption, CRACON highlighted the potential national security risks associated with the minister’s alleged business activities.

The group described the situation as deeply troubling, warning that private financial interests could compromise the minister’s judgement and Nigeria’s broader security interests.

“This is not just about corruption—it is about the safety and security of the nation. If the allegations are true, then Mr Badaru must step aside to allow a full and independent investigation,” the statement read.

CRACON concluded by urging President Tinubu to reassure citizens that accountability remains a cornerstone of his administration’s agenda.

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“We are calling on the president to act decisively and prove that his administration’s anti-corruption agenda is not just rhetoric. The credibility of this government is at stake, and Nigerians are watching closely,” the organisation said.